A Proposal to Remember

Imagine a young man inviting a young lady out to dinner.  After dinner he suggests they go for a walk. As they walk, they come upon a small park with a bubbling fountain, a white gazebo, park benches, and flowers all around.  

In the gazebo a string quintet begins to play as the young couple approaches.

The young man leads his lady over to a bench in the corner of the tiny park.  As she sits down, he bends down on one knee in front of her and reaches in his pocket to take out a small box.

The music from the string quintet continues softly in the background as the gentleman asks the lady for her hand in marriage.

The lady is surprised and delighted and gives the gentleman the answer he is hoping for, a resounding yes.  He places a ring upon her finger.

Sounds quite romantic, don't you think?  And romantic it was.  This proposal took place in this small park in my town last night. I know this is true because my son is a member of the quintet that was hired to perform the background music during the proposal.  He said it was the best gig they've had yet, and he came home wearing a big grin.  What fun it must have been to be a part of, and a witness to, such a happy event.

This little park was created on what was once an empty, weed-covered corner lot.  The city officials decided to buy the lot and turn it into a quaint, picturesque little park to add some beauty to our town for all to enjoy.  

The landscaping of the park was paid for in part by donations from businesses, families, and individuals.  Those who donated to the cause were able to have their name or business name engraved on one of the bricks used in the pathway that winds through the park.  Some who donated had their brick engraved in memory of a loved one who had died.  Others had it engraved in honor of someone celebrating a birthday or anniversary. 

Since the park was created, it has been the site where prom couples have gathered to have their photos taken while dressed in their fancy prom dresses and tuxedos.  It has also been the site for numerous wedding ceremonies where vows were spoken among the flowers with the sound of the water fountain bubbling behind them.  It has become a spot where memories are made.  I'm quite sure the proposal for marriage that happened here last night is one that will be long remembered, not only by the now newly-engaged couple, but also by those in the quintet who played music to accompany this turning point in their lives.