I first heard these vows at a friend’s wedding and immediately thought “Wow, those are perfect. I need to ask her where she found those.”

It turns out they stem from the Jewish tradition, but I find them universal in their tone and intention.

I always encourage couples to put their own touch to vows whether or not they choose to write their own. The vows below, I believe, are an excellent starting place for any creativity you wish to add.

Here they are…

(You) and (Your Partner) affirm their union of marriage and make these promises to each other:

As we share daily life, we promise to love, honor, respect, and cherish each other;

to celebrate life’s joys together and comfort each other through life’s sorrows.

We promise to help each other discover and follow our own true path in life;

to try to appreciate our differences as a source of richness;

and above all, to do everything within our power to permit each of us to become the persons we are yet to be.

We promise to appreciate our ancestors, families, and all living beings;

to treasure, enjoy and continue the traditions we have inherited;

to create a home filled with love and peace, balance and freedom, generosity and compassion, with healing tears and laughter.

May our hearts be united in love and our lives be intertwined forever in tenderness and devotion and may we find a  home everywhere on earth where we are together.