Our journey has been surreal. Who would have ever imagined that two people who attend the same church unknowingly had hidden admirations for each other but did not initially express them? As fate would have it, a church-speaking event by Dr. Kelli Gary caught the attention of Charles H. Talley, Jr. The event’s reception allowed both church members to meet each other formally. The defining moment of their journey came when Charles, after being impressed by the church presentation, asked Dr. Gary if she would be willing to serve as guest speaker at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy event in January of 2020. The MLK speaking event catapulted the journey to phone dialogue and an eventual first date. The first date led to the belief that a relationship was possible. As the months passed, their love grew and ultimately reached a point where they were almost inseparable.

The next defining moment came as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, they creatively found ways to increase their love, togetherness, spirituality, and positive outlets critical to their well-being and sanity. The pandemic revealed various challenges and obstacles that would prove valuable and contribute to a stronger relationship in the coming months. After Kelli’s expectation of a marriage proposal were not met during a birthday trip to Miami in July 2022, Charles redeemed himself and proposed later that year. Now the expected outcome on June 17th, 2023, will make up for earlier setbacks in their relationship. Charles and Kelli found the true meaning of love and resiliency and are now ready to become one. The happy couple will continue cleaving to God and each other as they build a life together in the years ahead, sharing the joys and sorrows as ONE.