If they say true love knows no bounds, is endless, patient, does not account for injury and is understanding then this is the truest of love - in its purest form. Samantha and I met at an event neither intended to attend, yet at the urging of each other’s matron there we found ourselves in the presence of one another. After a few cold shoulder exchanges, she eventually warmed up to the idea I wasn't going to leave until she talked to me. Once the ice was broken the conversation flowed effortless like the Victoria Falls of South Africa. A testament to our pasts we put everything on the table and loved what we heard, quickly recognizing that the other’s intentions were purposeful and pure. Samantha came to Charlotte looking for love and I came with an empty heart looking to fill it with a queen and that was just the first night…we talked until they literally turned the lights out on us.

In the days that followed we spent them wrapping ourselves in a foundation of closeness and an appreciation of our ethereal souls. Of course, we sifted through our likes and dislikes, but it was our genuine disposition that fanned a kindling into a flame. Our first date was supposed to be a thrashing in mini golf (by me of course), but she was purposely late. So, instead we had dinner at my place, a pot roast prepared to perfection on a bed of Basmati rice flanked by roasted veggies. You know, just a little something to show her she wasn't messing with a rookie since she had already lamented cooking was not a priority - it's okay I got you babe. That evening after she cleaned her plate, we laid on the couch and watched a movie, no Netflix n’ Chill, just innocent fingers through her thick crown rubbing my way into her heart and mind. Before we knew it, we were watching the sun rise on a new day cementing our bond.

Each day blends a more unbelievable feeling than the last with an eager look forward to the next, and a please do not let this moment ever end. Feelings like that, impossible to ignore, endure one to the other and made the decision to be one with her the easiest I have ever made. In a year filled with uncertainty my love for Samantha Nicole was 2020! So, on a wintery December 11, in a quaint single room cabin in the North Carolina mountains I presented her with an eloquently designed wine bottle donning our beautiful faces that asked a simple question. Samantha did me the honor of saying yes which has led us to this very moment.

I thank God for her each day, cheers my love to the years ahead!