In a heartwarming display of friendship and respect, Derek Hough recently shared a touching video on Instagram featuring his wife, Hayley Erbert, as she prepared to deliver a maid of honor speech in American Sign Language (ASL) for her best friend, Britt Stewart. The gesture not only highlights the deep bond between the women but also underscores the importance of inclusivity in social settings, particularly in events such as weddings, which are meant to celebrate love and companionship.
### The Heart of the Matter
In a post that resonated with many, Hough showcased Erbert’s dedication as she diligently practiced her speech in ASL, ensuring that Stewart’s groom, actor Daniel Durant, could fully understand and participate in the moment. This thoughtful act demonstrates an essential understanding of and respect for the nuances of communication, especially when it involves someone’s identity and experience.
The video, shared on September 22, takes viewers through Erbert’s journey, capturing candid moments of her rehearsing during workouts and while relaxing at home. In these snippets, Hough can be heard expressing pride in his wife’s efforts, remarking, “Babe, it’s unbelievable. That makes me emotional watching you do that.” This personal touch adds depth to the scene, showcasing not only Erbert’s commitment but also the support she receives from her partner.
### A Celebration of Love
Erbert’s speech, which she delivered at the wedding rehearsal for Stewart and Durant on August 23, encapsulated her admiration and affection for both her best friend and her friend’s husband. In her striking red dress, she addressed Durant directly, stating, “Daniel, you make Britt shine brighter than ever.” In doing so, she acknowledged both the importance of their bond and the role that Durant plays in Stewart’s life.
Throughout her speech, Erbert’s words were poignant and sincere, highlighting Durant as the “perfect balance” in Stewart’s life, while humorously noting that he brings out Stewart’s “sporty side.” Her eloquent expressions of gratitude and affection resonated not only with the couple but also with the guests present, creating an atmosphere filled with love and joy.
### The Power of Communication
Derek Hough’s decision to share these intimate moments not only provides a glimpse into the love and support shared between the couple but also raises awareness about the importance of accessible communication. Erbert’s efforts to learn ASL speak volumes about fostering inclusivity. In an era where diversity and representation are at the forefront of cultural discussions, such actions serve as a reminder of the love and consideration that can bridge gaps between different communities.
In her conclusion, Erbert thanked Durant for loving Stewart’s “beautiful soul.” This acknowledgment of love transcends beyond mere sentiment; it emphasizes the importance of understanding and celebrating each other’s differences.
### Emotional Impact
As the video unfolds, viewers witness a powerful moment captured at the rehearsal dinner. Erbert’s heartfelt delivery prompted an emotional response from both Durant and Stewart, illustrating the profound impact of her gesture. Stewart was quick to express her gratitude, sharing her appreciation for Erbert’s “sweet gesture” that not only brought tears to Durants’ eyes but also encapsulated the essence of their friendship.
Stewart took to her Instagram Story to convey her feelings, stating, “I love you so much, my soul sister!” This affectionate acknowledgment represents the deep connections that can be formed through understanding and compassion, highlighting the importance of lifting one another up.
### Conclusion
The shared moments between Derek Hough, Hayley Erbert, Britt Stewart, and Daniel Durant reflect the beauty of human connection. Erbert’s commitment to learning ASL not only made the wedding more inclusive for all attendees, especially Durant, but also enriched the emotional tapestry of the event. This story serves as a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that the effort to understand one another can create lasting bonds.
Derek Hough’s documentation of this journey is a testament to the strength of friendship and the power of inclusive communication. As society moves forward, acts like Erbert’s remind us of the importance of love, compassion, and respect for diversity. As Hough beautifully summarized, it was indeed “such a special wedding, bringing so many different worlds together celebrating two souls and one beautiful love.”
In a world where inclusivity is increasingly valued, Erbert’s actions stand out as a model for how to approach relationships with empathy and thoughtfulness. Her journey to learn ASL for Stewart’s wedding is a poignant reminder that the best expressions of love often come in the form of understanding and a willingness to go the extra mile.
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