Strong Woman: No Obey

Strong, self-assertive women have always existed. Most of them in history are unsung, but there are a few who are well-known.

My little story today involves a woman who was not widely known, but who should be celebrated.

In 1687, Dr. James Blair, founder of William and Mary, married Sarah Harrison. He was 31; she was 17.

The traditional wedding vows are different for the bride and the groom.

The groom is asked to promise "to love, comfort, honor, and keep her."

The bride is asked to love, honor, and obey.

The minister officiating at Sarah Harrison's wedding asked her to repeat the vows. When he got to the "obey" part of the vows, she replied, "No obey."

The minister paused then asked again to which Sarah Harrison answered, "No obey."

A third time the mininster repeated the vow, and a third time Sarah answered, "No obey." After which, the minister skipped over that part and went on with the ceremony.

Wow! 1687, and she had the guts to do that.

Takeaway Truth

I've read that their marriage was not a happy one, but I hope Sarah was happy within herself.