Ruth got her baby tonight. For months, she has been pleading for a baby doll, the aides thought she didn’t really want one or need one, she probably saw that some of the other residents had one.

I agreed. Ruth had never asked for a realistic baby doll before. Lately, as I have gotten to talk to her and Wayne about their Commitment Ceremony, which I am organizing, the request took on a different cast.

She really wanted this doll, and Wayne seemed to want one also. Then I realized it was somewhat connected to their relationship. Neither of them had had the opportunity to have children, both of their lives were interrupted by misfortune and health troubles.

Wayne had absolutely no one when he came to the Mansion. So I agreed and bought one on Amazon. I brought it to Wayne and Ruth tonight at the Mansion, they were both delighted, Ruth could hardly stop talking about having this “baby.”

Perhaps they wanted to have more of a family than either of them had ever had. There are now four baby dolls at the Mansion, they provide focus and the chance to nurture. I have a hunch we’ll see this baby doll at the Commitment Cemetery on May 14.

The Commitment Ceremony for Ruth and Wayne will be held at the Mansion on May 14. I have been asked to conduct the ceremony and also be Wayne’s Best man.

I don’t want to create a lavish ceremony, just a simple one, an affirmation of love and it’s power to transform, wherever it is found.

If you wish to contribute to this celebration – flowers, cupcakes, cookies, music, clothes –  you can contribute via Paypal, [email protected], or by check, Jon Katz, Wedding, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

Thanks.