It started with a teenage crush. We will never forget how we felt when we both made eye contact as we walked in opposite directions to class. We also never forgot the butterflies we felt when we made eye contact. Timing is everything, but unfortunately, time was not on our side early on. We took separate paths like ships passing in the night as we both looked for our light. While we navigated life on our own as best we could, we knew a piece of our heart was missing. Then one day, in the midst of a dark time for the entire world, the first of many dominoes began to fall when we reconnected. A light started to shine bright. We took a trip to Joshua Tree to seek adventure and excitement. While we gazed at the stars in the midst of darkness of the desert, we both realized we found our light. Our love was tested. Our hearts separated temporarily across a thousand miles, but our bond was strong, and our love bright enough to still be felt. As things came back to normal, our love grew stronger. We knew we were perfect for each other. And then, on a beautiful sunny summer day, the question was popped, and a commitment was made. We found the light that leads to our greatest adventure.

When we took our first step into dating, we decided to visit a beautiful cliffside lighthouse and take in the ocean breeze. It was our way of escaping the confinement of the pandemic. I quickly realized she was the one, and as our love progressed, I knew I had to propose where we had our first date. The lighthouse represented our love perfectly. During our time separated by over a thousand miles, our love for each other shined bright despite the feeling of darkness being far apart. It gave us hope and strength to move forward. On the day of the proposal, I woke up excited, yet anxious. I felt the pressure to play it cool and not giveaway any indications that today was the day. As I distracted my love for a short while, I was worried our families wouldn’t arrive on time. The timing was crucial. I had to make it happen at the perfect moment. Then it happened. I dropped on one knee and professed my love. At that moment, I wasn’t nervous or anxious. I poured out all of my feelings and asked her the most important question and she said yes! -Michael Orizaga