We are gathered together today to honor a union that has been 10 years in the making. By taking this brave step, these two — the Internet and Society — have acknowledged their ongoing devotion to one another, the profound nature of their relationship, and the hopes they have for a future together.

This may be a little non-traditional, but the happy couple has allowed me to share some insights about their romance, which was not entirely without struggle. In the early days, there was much uncertainty for the two, as their feelings for each other were ambivalent at times, and the prospects of a shared future were fraught with peril and ripe with opportunity. To add to the uncertainty, some interfering older relatives often made things more difficult for the smitten pair, wanting to enforce their traditions on these two independent souls. And in 2000, events transpired that seemed bound to separate the two forever. But destiny was not to be denied, and they stand here today, reinvented, recommitted, and renewed, stronger as a couple than ever before and ready to proceed down life’s long path together.

When the announcement was made, we all were heartened. It confirmed what we saw whenever we witnessed the two enjoying each other’s company. And now, we can cheer as the happy couple takes the traditional vows: To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish until death do us part.

Congratulations, Internet and Society!