It all began in 2017, Verdell had recently moved to Sunset Beach, NC and was in search of a church home. A friend suggested that he visit St. Paul AME church in Little River, SC which was just a tad bit over the state line. Verdell attended and became a member of the church we both call home on his 2nd visit. As the secretary of St. Paul AME Church of over 20+ years, my responsibilities include collecting new member information. I had no idea that on this Sunday I would encounter such a special man. As I began collecting Verdell’s information he almost made me freeze in my tracks when he told me how much he loved my spirit. I took his information, thanked him for his kind words and honestly didn't think much more of it at that time.

After first meeting Verdell some time had passed. Like myself, I noticed he was regularly active in the church. He attended bible study, Sunday school, revivals, and other church functions. I would see him a great deal. At times, we would even extend a friendly hello on Sunday but nothing more. One Sunday our Pastor was honoring the 90-year old members of the church. He, then asked everyone over 80 to stand. Verdell was very shocked to see me standing as so was he. Once we had gotten to know one another, he shared with me that he thought I was in my 60’s his daughter’s age. He said that’s why he stayed in his lane for so long. Shortly after, I was returning from a week- long cruise and was stepping out of my car at church. Verdell pulls up right beside me. He steps out of his car, walks over to me and hands me a small gift bag with a letter. I was surprised by his gesture and, thanked him for his kindness. After church, I went home and read the letter. I was genuinely flattered. Verdell had expressed that he thought I was easy on the eyes. loved my cropped hair, brown eyes and keen features. He also loved how involved I was in church and how I worshipped with my sister and brother in law. I guess you can say this is what got the ball rolling. Soon after, Verdell and I started communicating regularly at church, by text and phone. In April of 2019, I was comfortable enough with Verdell to accept his invitation to celebrate his birthday with him. We attended the Motown Review and had a great time.

Over the next few months, Verdell and I started spending more time getting to know one another. It was really nice and we genuinely enjoyed each other’s company. We had a ball going to shows, the movies, out to dinner and double dating with my sister and brother in law. We had so much in common and most importantly we were spiritually aligned. Verdell, loved how dedicated I was to my family and, how independent, kind, and joyful I was. I loved that Verdell was a sharp dresser and very handsome. He and I related so well. I enjoyed his life stories, love for things like bird watching and gardening. We really began falling for one another. Time was moving right along and the holidays were approaching. I invited Verdell to spend Thanksgiving with my family and I. I knew that he'd love to join us but, I also wanted to introduce the family to my new beau. (smile). So after a few family introductions and before our prayer over dinner which Verdell led. In front of my entire family he asked me to marry him. With so many joyous emotions running through me, I said “YES.” I would have never imagined I would become a bride again but, the Lord had other plans for me when Verdell Johnson walked into St. Paul AME Church close to 3 years ago.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

As we prepare to become one, Verdell and I are happy, in love and look forward to spending our years to come together.