Note to the reader. I've incorporated biblical references throughout that came to mind while writing. I encourage you to reference these verses in the Word as you read along. Be well. - Cole

Once upon a time ... (just kidding, Julia requested this intro).

I'll actually start by saying that all things work for good (Romans 8:28). As I look back on my life, I can see how God's plan unfolded in ways I could have never imagined, including how I met the love of my life, Julia (Proverbs 16:9). Although I first met Jules in March of 2022, God's distinct and divine intervention in our story began as far back as high school.

With the benefit of hindsight, I can see how nearly every stressful decision in my adult life was ultimately a pivotal step towards meeting Julia. From deciding to compete and study at a tiny university in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania, to completely changing my college studies, to switching jobs to a competitor firm during a pandemic, etc., it is amazing to witness the fruition of God's provision. Every day I am grateful for the trials which eventually led me to Julia. It is living evidence that God's love is never ending, His compassions never fail, great is His faithfulness (Lamentations 3:23-24).

The first time I saw Julia was tragically not in person...it was over a video conference call. We had both been appointed to an internal council at KPMG (aptly referred to by Steve Corr as "The Council of the People"). I had forgotten that an introductory call was on my calendar and, accordingly, was working outside at a coffee shop. Of course, everyone decided to be on camera; so there I was, not looking professional whatsoever with all these folks I had never met before. Despite the circumstances, I quickly took notice of the cute, bright, and confident girl named Julia Corr that appeared in the upper corner of my screen. I knew nothing about her other than that she was based in Chicago, very smart, vibrant, and that I was looking forward to meeting her in person. From the day I felt I first knew Julia, I could see she lived a life of love (Matthew 22:37-38).

I first met Julia in person in Chicago during March 2022 for our first People Council meeting. I'd like to think that when she saw this hunk from Southern California enter the building her heart melted ... but I'll leave that theory up to your own discretion. Throughout the day I continually gravitated towards her confidence, humility, bright attitude, and radiating smile. I knew that at happy hour I'd have to make small talk and try to learn if she was single. I successfully introduced myself while making a plate of nachos (I know right? ... so romantic) and got to small talking with her. We ended up having quite a bit in common and got along easily. That night, she took me and a few other coworkers around Chicago, including to the famous bar called Sluggers in Wrigleyville. There, we talked about friends' weddings and in doing so I found out she was single (yes ... it was gametime). So I worked up the courage to make a move. I pulled her aside before we all parted ways and simply said, "I just want you to know that you light up every room you walk into, and if you're interested, I'd be stoked to have you as my wedding date later this summer." Little did she know that I didn't even have a plus one to offer, but sometimes you just have to SEND IT.

Julia was not my wedding date that summer, but she and I kept up frequently ever since that weekend and eventually had the opportunity to spend time together while she was in Southern California visiting friends from Notre Dame. I'll never forget the comfort and ease of conversation we had on our first date. I was extremely impressed by her grace and fun loving nature. Eventually we started dating, flying across the country to get to know one another and our loved ones, and the rest is history.

Julia is the greatest gift God has ever graced me with. She is an amazing steward of God's love. She is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love and devotion (Psalm 103:8). There is a reason so many people see her as a close friend and confidant. She's a selfless leader, and truly invested in the wellbeing of everyone whose paths she crosses. I've always said that you know someone loves you when they put your own interests above theirs, and that couldn't ring truer with Julia. She makes me a better person, a better Christian, and most importantly has filled my soul with the deepest love I've ever known other than the love of Jesus (John 3:16 and 1 John 4:9-12).

Julia Marie Corr: I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you and lead our family in faith and love. I love you.