Our story began in 2018 during the first ever Vietnamese foreign language campaign held in the United States branch territory. To Adrian’s recollection, a simple meeting in preaching during that campaign. To Karen’s recollection our first meeting was a whimsical evening of Karaoke during the convention of that year. Karen had dedicated herself to Jehovah on July 2011 and four years later began preaching in the Vietnamese field in 2015. Adrian had dedicated himself to Jehovah on June 2002 and six years later, in October 2008, began preaching in the Vietnamese foreign language field. Which led to us meeting that summer in 2018. Throughout the next six years we would keep in touch through social media but never more than the casual laughing at a post or liking an image. As time passed Adrian would seldomly look at her profile on social media and think to himself "why can't I just talk to somebody kind and modest like Karen!" Karen would remember how much fun she had that one night at karaoke and wonder if she would get a chance to spend time with him again since he had moved to Texas the year they met. It wasn't until December of 2023 that a simple conversation would turn into a series of engaging conversations over text. (Adrian dropping in the DM's) Which led to a series of phone conversations until May 2024 when we decided to express our growing affection for each other and pursue a relationship.

We had been conversing over the phone quite regularly at this point. Adrian never asked if he could call Karen. He figured that if she didn't want to talk to him she would simply not pick up or continue talking to him. Karen obliged as she truly did enjoy the random phone conversations. But one day, very formally, Adrian asked if he could call that Friday night. Karen said yes, but Adrian never called. That Friday a violent storm had hit Houston with thunder, rain and 80mph winds. Knocking out power and Internet for the next week. The following Saturday morning Adrian called Karen to apologize for not calling as they had agreed. But getting no answer at 7:00 am, Adrian left a voicemail. He started getting ready for the day. But about five minutes later Adrian had a sudden urge to simply lay out his feelings and intentions with Karen and accept whatever response. To either move on or move forward. So he did. Adrian expressed he didn't need any more sisters or friends. That he wasn't sure how this relationship started but he was glad it did and that he felt she was the missing piece he'd been missing. Then he asked if she wanted to pursue something deeper. What Adrian didn't know is that Karen did see the first voicemail. He didn't know that after seeing the transcript of the first voicemail on her phone Karen started praying. Praying that this man make it clear and be genuine because she didn’t want to get her hopes up and waste time with someone not seeking something meaningful with her. But midway through that prayer Adrian left the second voicemail expressing his feelings and saying "if I'm calling you it's because I like you and want to see if we have the potential to become something deeper than friends" Karen feeling like there were hidden cameras couldn't believe her prayer was answered so fast even before she was done praying. Later that day they talked over what was expressed and began a courtship. And for the last year and a half it has been the best blessing they had both experienced.

What Adrian loves about Karen is that she genuinely loves people. She's hospitable and is patient with others. And it makes her a real joy just to be around. She helps him recognize when he's being negative and helps him be more positive. and view himself in a more positive light. Karen - There is so much to love about Adrian. From the warmth in his hugs to the confidence in which he speaks. Adrian knows what he wants and works towards achieving it. He’s patient and not only does he put up with my random little obsessions, he embraces them and truly enjoys being silly with me. When I’m not good with words, Adrian is able to draw out my thoughts and feelings with gentle kindness. The best part about dating Adrian is that I've gotten to see how despite the ups and downs of life, he has allowed Jehovah to train him and teach him along the way, I get to see him rely on Jehovah for strength and wisdom and I feel proud that I'll get to continue serving Jehovah by his side.

Proverbs 13:12 The right one comes at the right time and not a moment sooner, so hold out and look for Jehovah's blessing. Isaiah 30:18, Jeremiah 17:7 Stay positive, believe that Jehovah is looking out for your happiness and wait on his blessing. Malachi 3:10 When you stay busy serving Jehovah, He makes sure there is nothing lacking.