We met working at a local grocery store in Virginia Beach, Va. Both of us were very into our careers and lives at the time to even think about pursuing a new relationship. We had been working with each other for about a year before we even knew whether one of us was interested. On Melanie's last day before being transferred to another store she asked for my phone number. Then Marvin made a bold move and said " I have had the biggest crush on you and would love to take you on a date but if not you can't have my number. If I give you my number don't leave me on read." We have been together every day since our first date!

Nothing special... I wrote her a 4-page letter and kept it with me every day waiting on the right day to read it to her. I was extremely nervous for 6 months. I talked to her mom Susan about it every day. Literally everyday! We went to lunch on a weekly basis and I would vent to her about I was just so nervous about not being good enough or not having enough to offer her. Susan would say in her Susan's voice... JUST ASK HER ALL SHE CAN SAY IS YES OR NO BUT I PROMISE SHE WILL SAY YES. One day before going to work I remember praying about it while watching her sleep. When she woke up the world was just still. It was quiet and just us. It was as if the world was paused. We started talking about nothing but everything at the same time. Then out of nowhere came that Lion King "CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT" stare lol. If you don't know what I'm talking about then watch the movie again. Then I just pulled out the letter and "LET IT GO" like Elsa. I gave her the ring & she said YES!

God is the source The family is the priority Protect all women & children Teach all kids about money & credit Train all men to lead & provide Train all women to think independently Never hide the ball from the family Honor your ancestors through actions Be a lifeboat not a cruise ship Take care of your parents