We first crossed paths during the summer of 2014 at the YMCA where we were both working as camp counselors. Bonding over our shared enthusiasm for sports, we swiftly transitioned from mere coworkers to best friends. However, it wasn't until three years later when we casually met up for lunch that we discovered our connection would grow into a beautiful journey that would last a lifetime. Unbeknownst to us at the time, that simple lunch date marked the beginning of our forever love story.

On Christmas night of 2022, my proposal to Liyah Terrell, modeled after the virtues and characteristics of our relationship, manifested with very little surprise. Taking place within the home where she was dutifully raised and passionately loved, in the presence of our most intimate family members, I read aloud a written letter that concluded with these words, followed by the grand request: "To engage is to betroth, and to betroth is to thoroughly pledge. Upon your acceptance of my request this evening, which lies within God’s grace, betrothed you and I will be, and thoroughly pledged will I be to the lifelong protection and prosperity of Liyah Terrell, my best friend, and the absolute love of my existence…" It was then that I bent the knee, presented the ring, and laid forth the request... "Will you marry me?"