Milly Chebby, a popular social media personality and content creator, recently opened up about her traditional wedding ceremony, or ruracio, in a heartfelt YouTube video. In this candid reflection, she revealed not just the joys of her 2023 wedding, but also the pivotal role her former best friend, Jackie Matubia, played in influencing her decision to hold the ceremony. The story highlights the complexity of friendships, the significance of cultural traditions, and how unexpected moments can lead to life-changing decisions.
A Reflection on Friendship
Milly and Jackie were once inseparable, often sharing glimpses of their friendship on social media. However, their paths diverged, and they are no longer seen together. Jackie did not attend Milly’s recent ruracio, making the memories of their friendship all the more poignant as Milly recounted how Jackie’s casual question sparked the chain of events leading to her wedding planning.
In her video, Milly reminisced about an outing with Jackie at Two Rivers Mall in 2023, just before their friendship began to fade. The two friends enjoyed a relaxed evening at a restaurant owned by a mutual friend, where Jackie posed a seemingly innocent question about marriage. “Have you ever officially married Chebet? Have you done a ruracio? When’s the wedding?” This question ignited a series of discussions that would ultimately lead to Milly and Terence’s wedding planning.
From Casual Question to Wedding Planning
Jackie’s question wasn’t just a casual inquiry; it opened the door to a deeper conversation about the couple’s future. Terence, Milly’s partner, had previously planned to have a more elaborate ruracio after their initial ceremony in 2017, which had been relatively simple, involving a payment of Ksh23,000 to Milly’s family. The couple decided that a second ruracio was necessary, especially as their relationship had matured and they were now in a better position financially.
The restaurant outing, filled with laughter and nostalgia, took a significant turn when Terence responded to Jackie’s question about their wedding plans. He casually mentioned that they were contemplating a “ruracio ya heshima,” which translates to a ceremony of respect. This comment caught the attention of the group, and it became the catalyst for a wedding planning committee. The light-hearted banter in the restaurant quickly turned serious, as friends rallied around the couple to support their plans.
Building Momentum
Encouraged by their friends’ enthusiasm, a WhatsApp group was formed to coordinate the event. The excitement was palpable as everyone contributed ideas and resources. Among the most notable supporters was the hotel owner, who playfully pledged Ksh100,000 to help kickstart the wedding fund. This was followed by another Ksh100,000 from their best couple friends, further motivating Milly and Terence to take decisive steps toward their wedding.
The scene in the restaurant transformed from a casual dinner to a hub of wedding planning energy. Milly reflected on how quickly the plans materialized, joking that “just like that, we have a wedding!” The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement, reminding everyone of the power of community in supporting love and commitment.
The Importance of Tradition
For many couples, traditional weddings are a vital part of their relationship journey, serving as a bridge between cultural heritage and modern love. Milly and Terence’s decision to have a more elaborate ruracio in 2023 reflected their growth as a couple and their desire to honor their families and traditions.
In her video, Milly emphasized how the second ruracio was not just a celebration of their love but also a way to solidify their commitment in the eyes of their families and community. The couple’s humorous acknowledgment of the previous ceremony and the gossip that surrounded it highlighted the importance of perception in cultural practices. Terence remarked, “This time, it was a ruracio ya heshima because the last time the whole village gossiped about me; I really surprised them.” This self-awareness and humor showcased their maturity and understanding of their cultural context.
Nostalgia and Moving Forward
As Milly shared her thoughts and memories, she also touched upon the bittersweet nature of her friendship with Jackie. The clips from their last outing together served as a reminder of their bond, which had frayed over time. Despite the distance, Milly’s reminiscences reflect the complex nature of friendships, where love, laughter, and support can exist alongside misunderstandings and separation.
The moment in the elevator, where Milly playfully reminded Jackie, “On the week you got divorced!” added a humorous touch to the otherwise emotional narrative. It encapsulated the blend of joy and sorrow that often accompanies significant life events. It’s a reminder that life is full of unexpected turns, and sometimes, those we hold dear can drift apart as we navigate our journeys.
Conclusion: Celebrating Love and Friendship
Milly Chebby’s journey to her 2023 ruracio, catalyzed by Jackie Matubia’s casual yet profound question, is a testament to the intricate web of relationships that shape our lives. While friendships may change and evolve, the memories and influences they leave behind can have lasting impacts.
The story also underscores the importance of traditional ceremonies in celebrating love and commitment, serving as a reminder of the cultural values that connect us to our roots. Milly and Terence’s decision to hold a more elaborate ruracio reflects their growth as individuals and as a couple, allowing them to celebrate their love with their community.
In sharing her experiences, Milly invites her audience to reflect on their relationships, the significance of tradition, and the unexpected moments that can lead to meaningful life decisions. As she moves forward in her journey, both as an individual and as a partner, the memories of her friendship with Jackie and the support of her community will continue to shape her path.
