In a world where love often begins with dramatic first sights and instant connections, ours started quietly, in the ordinary halls of our university. I Reynold was outgoing and friendly. She Agnes was reserved and focused. Our paths crossed as classmates, but our hearts took a little longer to recognize each other. In fact, with her quiet demeanor and serious expression, I mistook her calm nature for aloofness. Little did I know that behind that composed exterior was a soul that would perfectly complement mine.

It took a metal casting assignment to bring us together. As we worked side by side, I discovered a different Agnes than the one I had imagined - thoughtful, brilliant, and possessing a laugh that, when it finally emerged, was the most beautiful sound I'd ever heard. That unexpected giggle became my favorite melody, one I would later seek to coax out whenever possible.

Life has a way of revealing what we need most when we least expect it. For us, it was a friendship first - genuine, supportive, and increasingly essential. We shared late nights completing projects, celebrated each other's successes, and offered comfort during disappointments. One of my favorite memories of us is going to our campus fellowship dinner together. Even though Agnes had experienced a huge disappointment from a friend, she called me and simply declared, "We're going to dinner." It wasn't a suggestion!!!

Even when our careers pulled us to different regions, our connection only strengthened. Video calls became our lifelines - sometimes scheduled, sometimes spontaneous moments of sharing when one of us needed the other. Across miles and screens, we witnessed each other's growth, celebrated victories from afar, and somehow managed to feel closer despite the distance. Finally, God blessed us with the opportunity to be in Iowa together and has brought us to this moment.

What makes our love story special isn't a dramatic beginning but the gradual realization that what we found in each other was something extraordinary. Our relationship blossomed from mutual respect into deep friendship, and eventually into a love that feels both exciting and wonderfully familiar.

Agnes loves God with her whole heart, approaches life with quiet wisdom, and brightens my darkest days with her sudden bursts of laughter. Her kindness toward others reveals a generosity of spirit that I strive to match. She sees the world in careful detail, appreciating nuances that many miss, and has taught me to slow down and truly observe the beauty around us.

Agnes says she loves my patient heart, the uncomplicated energy I bring to complicated situations, and how I listen when others speak. She tells me my optimism balances her pragmatism, creating a harmony that makes us better together than we ever could be apart. More than anything, she appreciates my heart for the Lord and kindness towards others.

Today marks not the beginning of our love story, but a new chapter in a tale that's been unfolding for years. Together, we promise to take trips that expand our horizons, to regularly list the things we love about each other, to try new adventures side by side, and to create a home filled with laughter and purpose. We promise to allow ourselves room to grow - both individually and as partners. We'll embrace spontaneity, enjoy the wonders of nature together, and build a life based on our shared values and dreams. One that is built one the love and

presence of God.