.John and I often talk about the first moment we saw each other. In high school, we passed by each other and locked eyes. That simple moment seemed to last forever. An overwhelming wave of energy sparked between us, like a hint from our souls that this was the person we would spend our lives with. I looked away from him and walked down the hall, just to look back and watch John breaking his neck for another peek. Haha Fast forward to a year after that first glance, during my sophomore year we finally connected with each other. We went to a friend’s bonfire together and after that night we were inseparable. We dated all throughout my high school years so I guess you can say we’re high school sweethearts, maybe. From prom dates and birthdays, to not the best moments , we were there for each other. We were young and in love. We’ve both endured some heavy times together. I really think that's what makes our love so strong because of what we’ve gone through. There was a moment we both went through turbulent times. We made mistakes and grew from them. We spent time apart to learn and grow on our own. However, we know that love is patient and love is kind. A true love will withstand the test of time. Even though there was distance between us, we both always knew the love was always there. In March 2020, I hopped on a plane and finally visited John in Florida. As always when we got together, it was just how we left off. We’d laugh over our memories as we made new ones. Yet, we both realized there was something different about this time we reconnected. Once John and I grew to rekindle our love, we realized quickly that as we matured, the love we had for each other matured as well. I think at this point our souls knew that we were through the lessons and learning what we needed to. Little did we know how ready we really were. Another flight later, we booked a stay in the Florida Keys. There, we really fell in love all over again. The peaceful still Gulf ocean, the sunsets, and not to mention the drinks; we were in our own little paradise. The ocean will always have a place in our heart, because there by the ocean is when we knew where we wanted to be. Our love for each other is truly as endless as the ocean. The ocean can be unpredictable at times, sometimes there’s waves and you have to be ready for whatever the tide brings. No matter where life takes you the ocean will always be there, when all things fade away the ocean will always remain. Just as the waters, love will stand that test of time. When all else fails, let love endure. As we join together for this moment with you all, take in the breeze, unwind, feel at peace and celebrate our love.