OSASERE

As a teens teacher, I was assigned the duty of leading the teenagers in my church for a program. The phone call from my leader asking me to lead the teens came in the night before the program. I did all I could to refuse the task because I had a job I was going for that morning. I remember my leader said to me on the call, "You are the only person available that can go with them". After much hesitation, I accepted.

On getting to the program, I was amazed that it was an Environmental program, as this was my career focus at that time. I got so involved with the program that I put up my hand to ask a question. Although I did not get the answer I wanted, I did not care because I was just happy I came for the program.

Not long, a certain tall, dark, beautiful and calm looking lady walked up to me. She greeted me and said “I know the man did not really answer your question, so I decided... “(At this point I was wowed by her boldness and act of service). I am not sure I remember what she said during that moment, but I was certain that I had found a new friend that day.

After our first meeting, all I had was the hope to meet her again. Whenever I attended any program organized by the NGO, I was always looking out for her. During one particular program, she wore a blue jean, black shirt with the jeans rolled up and nice trainers. She looked so beautiful. Everyone was taking pictures that day, so I snatched the opportunity to take a picture with her. This was the last time I saw her physically for almost 3 years. We seldom spoke on the phone, maybe once in 3 months or more. Despite not talking with her regularly, I always felt some sort of connection whenever we spoke. She however left an indelible impression of her in my heart since the first day we met.

When I knew she was the one, I hesitated for weeks before asking her out. This was because I was not sure what her reply would be. One morning, I summoned the courage to ask her out. My request was followed with weeks and months of silence mixed with lots of questions. During that period I felt like I was being interviewed for a lifetime job. Gladly, after several months she accepted. Since that day, I have had the best friend and companion I could ever wish for. I am certain that this is a match made in heaven and I am glad that I will be spending the rest of my life with her.

AISOSA

We met at a program hosted by an environmental NGO at Precious Palm Royal Hotel. I was invited by a course mate who insisted on me attending. I told him that I wouldn't be able to make the program, but he refused to let it go. So I finally found a way to make it to the program despite my busy schedule.

While the program was ongoing, a handsome, well-dressed man asked about the availability of environmental management programs at the University of Benin. The moderator incorrectly answered that such programs were not available at the school. Fortunately, I was studying an environmental-based course, so I opted to answer the question but the session was wrapped up before I could contribute.

After much hesitation, I approached him at the end of the program to address his question. He was so elated about my assistance. At the end of our discussion, we exchanged contacts and parted ways. During another program, our paths crossed again and we connected better, sharing our views on environmental-related matters. He would seldom call me and we would talk about different things. The few times we spoke, I admired his perspectives on the various topics we discussed. This made me interested in conversing with him.

We didn't see each other for over 2 years after our second meeting but we would occasionally talk on the phone. He eventually called one morning and asked me to consider building a relationship with him. After the call, I laughed in disbelief, intending to decline his proposal without much thought, as usual. I believe God must have also laughed, watching me make my plans.

Many signs proved that he was the one for me but I still hesitated for a long time. I probably questioned him more than Queen Sheba questioned Solomon. Finally, through divine guidance, I accepted his proposal and God has proven that He writes the best love stories. I can confidently say He wrote mine and I look forward to forever with my one true love.