My nephew married his longtime girlfriend last week. They had a celebration that followed all current Covid guidelines for small gatherings, keeping distance, masks and gloves. I thought it would provide one thing to be happy about in 2020, but realized I was left feeling more empty about what was missing than anything else. So, what was missing? First, a grand parent. It was too risky for the elderly. Second, group photos of smiling faces, and photos of family generations. Thirdly, socializing. Nobody was walking around socializing at tables, meeting members of the other side of the family. Usually wedding celebrations allow for connections between the two families, and future story-telling of how you remember the bride's Aunt dancing with Uncle Joe, etc. No, none of that. It seemed more functional than celebratory. I did not meet anyone on the bride's side at all, and I was sitting at the table with the parent's of the groom. Is this the way all weddings are this year, or was it just that wedding? Is this one more casualty of this virus?
I feel sad for them for what they missed, but then I think maybe the bride and groom did not notice any of those aspects. Being 22 and 24 years old, they likely were just happy with their group of friends in attendance and happy to be husband and wife. Maybe the family photos do not matter so much.
I am surprised that your nephew had friends in attendance.....I'm really big on covid precautions, so, for events like that, with covid, I'm surprised. NC is perhaps more stringent on gatherings.
I would ask for some photos though. They likely have a bunch on their phones.
I fear that if we spend too much time wishing for what we once had, and letting that grief last more than a day, we're going to wear ourselves down. I know that's a risk for me.