We met on Oct 17, 2014 when our mutual friends decided to throw a birthday party for everyone born in October. I noticed Elly from a distant since she was the quietest one there. I wanted her to feel welcomed so I went to introduce myself. We felt an instant connection that we started hanging out a couple of times afterwards. Shortly after, Elly decided to move to Asia. I felt a bit sad knowing that we just became friends and now she’s leaving. To our surprise though, our friendship blossomed. The 8,284 miles distance across the Pacific Ocean didn’t feel tormenting at all. Everything felt serene when we text or call. One of Elly’s best quality is that she can read a person’s face. I was feeling down one day but still took a selfie and posted it on Facebook. She texted me right after and asked what was wrong. I asked, what do you mean? Elly responded, “I saw your picture on facebook. You’re smiling but it’s like you’re trying too hard.” She was right. I was feeling down that day. 8 months later, Elly’s mom was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Elly decided to return home. You could say that my mother in law’s condition united us back. The surgery was taking place three weeks prior to my birthday. Three weeks after my mother in law was discharged, we ended up celebrating my birthday at the happiest place on earth...Disneyland! Elly asked me to be her girlfriend a couple of weeks later. Although my answer was already a yes, I asked Elly to give me some time. I gave an answer on Oct 17, 2015 which marks our 1 year friendship anniversary. 6 months into our relationship, Elly asked me “why did you ask me to wait? You see, my family is traditional. Trying to change their norm and belief was not going to be an easy task however I found courage in Elly’s love to stand up and protect what we have built together. Now we can honestly say...We Made It!!! Cheers to love conquering all!