Valencia and Michael first met in Harrison Place Apartments during the summer of 2014. They each knew a common neighbor, John Deramus, who loved to look out for his community. Michael and Valencia were cordial in passing and one day Valencia needed help with her computer, so Michael offered his best friend to assist. As mere passing friends, Michael and Valencia lost touch for roughly 5 years and their lives were very different. As God would have it, they would cross paths again at another common friend, Squirrel—Michael’s and Valencia’s son’s barbershop. They conversed briefly and reminisced on how their lives were vastly different all while the Lord was bringing them together. This conversation turned into many days and nights on the phone including gym visits with Michael rebounding as Valencia shooting all the shots. ;) On one night while they were on FaceTime praying, Michael felt convicted by God to ask Valencia to be his girlfriend and she accepted. Then, COVID shocked the world and made quick work of their relationship adventure plan, but it only brought them closer together. After courting 18 months with God at the center, Michael found the courage to ask Valencia to join him in a covenant with God. Once again, she accepted, but with tears in her eyes. Through many prayers, times of perseverance, God has made it clear that this is His plan for their lives. This is their story and they are sticking to it!