I first met Ian in an architecture studio, introduced by a friend who happened to be his roommate. At the time, I didn’t think much of the encounter, it was just a passing introduction. But soon, I began seeing him more and more, seemingly by coincidence. Whether it was my classroom, my dorm, and my church; Ian was suddenly everywhere! At first, I found him to be very serious, incredibly focused, and deeply intentional. He carried himself with a self-confidence that was both admirable and, admittedly, a little intimidating. He was the first young man I had ever met who made me feel that way and I couldn’t help but respect him. He had such clarity and grit when it came to his goals, something I hadn’t often seen in others my age. As time passed and our conversations grew longer and more meaningful, I began to see beyond the initial impression. Yes, Ian was intentional and driven, but he was also kind, gentle, thoughtful, and sweet. Most importantly, it became clear to me that he was a man of strong character whose life was anchored in a deep love for Christ.

Before meeting Ian, I had become disheartened in finding a good match for myself, and I often felt I couldn’t fully be myself. By the time I finished my first quarter at university, I had reached a point of peace with the idea of not finding a young man anytime soon.

But meeting Ian changed that. Here was someone who not only matched my love for learning and growth, but who also delighted in teaching me, about life, faith, and topics that truly mattered. He was incredibly wise, and I found myself looking up to him in a way I hadn’t with anyone else. For the first time, I met someone with whom I could envision building a life, raising a family, and walking faithfully in step with Christ. Here he was at last!

I met Amy for the first time by accident, but after all the doors God has opened I am now convinced that it was providence. I saw her at Grace Central Coast's fall launch service from across the congregation, and was immediately attracted to her. I had no hope of ever seeing her again or being friendly with her. My whole life, I doubted that I was cut out for marriage and for love; at best, I would maybe settle down as a 30-something professional. Little did I know I would meet someone so awesome in so many ways so early. Amy and I ended up sharing a studio professor, ended up attending Local Church, and had mutual friends. Even after becoming friends, I did not allow myself to believe we would ever be more than that, but as I got to know her character, wisdom, faith, and personality, I fell hard. I was committed to pursuing until I heard a hard no. Without any hope for success, and with the encouragement of many friends and family, I made my intentions known. To my genuine shock, she reciprocated, and my life completely changed. Now I count myself lucky and still bewildered that I get to call Amy my wife and companion for life. I give thanks to God who opened so many doors and for my friends and family, especially Ryan, Thomas, Liam, and Kyle, who consistently pushed and encouraged me to pursue even as I was self-doubting and lacking in hope.

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows