Liz and Danny's journey has been marked by growth and shared experiences. They met at church when they were just 4 years old, their bond only growing stronger over the years. In 2019, after going on missionary work together in Colombia, they realized their feelings for each other and began dating. This summer, they'll celebrate five years together, having shared many milestones, including their nearly identical birthdays, with Danny's falling on March 20th and Liz's on March 21st. Their college years at Corban University in Salem, Oregon, brought challenges, including the pressure of the "ring by spring" culture. However, they both recognized they weren't spiritually mature enough for marriage. Despite this, their relationship deepened, laying a strong foundation for their future. In 2022, Liz was called to teach abroad in Indonesia, marking the start of their long-distance journey. Being thousands of miles apart and with Jakarta being a day ahead of Portland, Oregon, the time zone difference made communication difficult, with Danny's "good morning" messages often arriving just as Liz was going to bed. Despite the challenges, their love endured, sustained by their shared faith and commitment to each other. The strain of long-distance tested their relationship, leading Danny to visit Indonesia in December 2022 to reaffirm their love. Both Liz and Danny struggled in the first months of their long-distance relationship, grappling with the challenges of time zone differences and personal issues. There were breaking moments when it seemed the distance was too vast to bridge. However, with the help of God, the guidance of mentorship, and pre-counseling sessions, they found renewed strength. Danny's visit reignited their connection, strengthening their resolve to overcome the distance together. His time in Indonesia not only reaffirmed their love but also offered him a poignant glimpse into Liz's world. From visiting her students at Sekolah Pelita Harapan to exploring the enchanting landscapes of Bali with Chai and Matt, every moment deepened their bond and solidified their commitment to each other. As Colossians 3:14 teaches, 'And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.' Embracing this wisdom, they look forward to August 8th, 2024, when they will be united in holy matrimony. Liz's teaching and Danny's aspiration to become a dentist serving underserved communities reflect their shared values and dedication to making a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.
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