Finding Joy in Other People's Joy: A New Concept

While sifting through the New York Times this morning, the Weddings/Celebrations section caught my eye because there was a pretty Asian bride in the picture. I wanted to see more pictures. Who is this girl? Why does her wedding get a write up? It's common knowledge the write ups are mainly of people whose backgrounds and education make you feel completely inadequate in comparison, furthered by their meet-cute rom-com with the happy ending, but I was in the mood for a little ego kick in the butt today. (Sometimes the ego just needs to be in check). While browsing Karin Fong's story, (OK, yeah, it was pretty cute), I noticed the header for Caroline Tiger and Jonathan Dunsay's wedding. It read:

The couple were wed on Nov. 8, in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, proving that a long-distance relationship can work.

The part that said "proving that a long-distance relationship can work" was what caught my eye as I am in one myself, my first serious L.D.R. As I read their story it turns out she was inspired to write a book, The Long Distance Relationship Guide, after an L.D.R. that hadn't worked out. Her following quote had me laughing out loud:

"Making an L.D.R. work requires a good cellphone plan, wrinkle-free clothes, humor and an unshakable belief that there is only one person in the universe for you."

I have yet to find a resolution to my packing issues. 1) I'm still not convinced I can last 3 days without 8 pairs of shoes. 2) All 20 of my outfits for the 3 days need to be ironed. I do have unlimited calling with T-Mobile, although I never have reception.

Anyway, I found Caroline and Jonathan's story so cute, her anecdotes witty and funny, that I decided to go out and buy her little guide today. See? I'm not just a bitter little troll who's only moments of joy are derived from schadenfreude. I can be moved by a stranger's happiness. That's it. No sarcastic comment to follow.