The year was 2005, and I was a brand new sophomore just figuring things out. I had joined the ASU track team and was living in King Hall with the other athletes. Every morning, Daryl, Nic, and I would wake up super early for our first practice of the day. Afterward, we’d hit up the café for breakfast, usually with John, Clarence (who was Nic’s roommate), and a few others. This became our little routine.

One day while we were chatting at lunch, two ladies came over, and little did I know that one of them would turn out to be the love of my life. Shenelle was friends with Nic and Clarence, and at first, I didn’t really talk much when she was around—I was usually off in my own head. But as we kept running into each other, we started having little conversations. They were always a bit competitive but respectful. I ended up really respecting her because she was one of the few women I’d met who could keep up with me, and it turned into a fun challenge to try to get a rise out of her.

By September 2006, I had to leave school because I ran out of money and knew I needed to grow up a bit. We stayed connected on Facebook, sending the occasional message to check in. Time flew by, and while we’d chat every now and then, it wasn’t something that weighed on our minds.

In 2012, my life finally calmed down enough for me to head back to school and finish my degree. I was on a class trip to the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles when we reconnected. I don’t remember who called who, but we ended up talking for two and a half hours, catching up while I was on my way to the museum. We promised to keep in touch because there was so much to share.

At the time, I was still married, and Shenelle always respected my marriage. However, as I transitioned out of that life, she offered me support, counsel, and stability. Her belief in God and the power of forgiveness helped ground me during some of my darkest moments and truly revealed her character as both a person and a friend. Throughout my educational journey, she remained exceptionally supportive. As a new parent, I also shared tips with her about raising kids. Despite the years passing, along with the chaos of divorce and breakups, we chose to remain friends, maintaining the close bond we had developed.

Fall 2005, Alabama State University. A group of friends meet for lunch every day in the café. Among them is JV, the most annoying and arrogant guy from Miami. Knowing lots of people in the group, I join in for daily meals and conversations. JV, I didn't know at all. Somehow, uncertain when it happened, daily lunch and laughs turned into arguments and debates between he and I. We quickly became lunchtime entertainment amongst the crew. I don't know why he loved bothering me, but I'm from New Orleans, not to mention an Aries, so all the smoke he gave me, I gave it right back!

JV left ASU in 2006, and for me, it was out of sight - out of mind. A few years later, I received a Facebook friend request, and I remember saying to myself, "The aggravating freckle face boy!" Reluctantly, I accepted, and occasionally, we'd send messages to check on each other and vex the other's nerves. As years passed, we lived our lives, started families, and shaped our careers, yet remained in touch. The "frenemies" were slowly becoming friends. Of course, we both still had to maintain a slightly sarcastic and fiesty demeanor whenever we did talk, though. Over time, we discovered how much we had in common and that we were more alike than we thought. We shared a passion for food, equally enjoyed traveling, talked sports, discussed the latest songs and overlooked artists, and realized our love for exploration, adventure, and music is what truly bonded and connected us.

July 2022, What started out as one of our regular calls, led to Jaivean asking a question: "What do you think a relationship between you and I could look like if we really gave each other a try"? That call lasted HOURS. I asked more questions than the CIA, FBI, DEA, you name it! The response: "We'll see, but I will not be your 2022 girlfriend!" (insider). Needless to say, we've been inseparable. By the end of 2022, we'd returned to our beloved ASU, met each other's children, spent the holidays together, and brought in the New Year. March 2023 fiancé status was activated. While vacationing for the first time together in Jamaica, a dream proposal with dinner on the beach and a photographer was so thoughtfully and lovingly planned. The ultimate question by Jaivean: "Will you marry me?" The response: "Absolutely YES"! Due to our long-distance relationship, the airport continues to be our best friend with monthly visits and celebratory trips. We're proof that LDR can work! Our faith in God and commitment to each other have allowed us to get through all things together.

WHEN I KNEW (Shenelle) - September 2022: My relationship with Christ has and remains to be a vital part of my life. Jaivean and I were having a discussion about faith and prayer one night. I asked his thoughts and feelings about us at a point praying together. He said he wouldn't mind and he'd be open to it. Upon ending the call and saying our goodnights, Jaivean says, "We haven't prayed yet. Let's start now." We've been praying together ever since. This was God's confirmation of what I already knew.....It Was Always You ❤️........"Alexa, play Alicia Keys', That's When I Knew".

WHEN I KNEW (Jaivean) - July 2022 marked a transformative moment for me. As Shenelle and I grew closer over the summer, my commitment to my Master's program kept me focused, but late one night, everything changed. I suddenly woke up, heart racing, realizing with clarity, "she's the one." That realization filled my thoughts, making it hard to drift back to sleep.

It was the beginning of envisioning our future together and contemplating when to take the next big step with a ring. I’ve often joked with her about not being a great boyfriend since I feel so well-prepared for the role of a husband. For me, it’s never been about if I would propose, but when. I’m genuinely excited about what lies ahead for us, and I can’t wait to explore this beautiful journey together!