Forever
There are moments in life when you know everything is about to change. This was one of those moments.
We left your apartment and walked over here like it was just another evening enjoying one of our favorite Christmas traditions. The lights were glowing, a fire was crackling, chestnuts were roasting, and someone was reading ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. It all felt wonderfully ordinary. At least to you.
I was carrying a secret that had been growing in my heart for a long time. Every step toward this place brought me a little closer to asking the question that I had already hoped I knew the answer to. What you didn’t know was that your daughters were here. My dad was here. Our pastor was here. Friends were waiting back at your apartment, ready to celebrate. So many people who loved us had quietly become part of this moment without you ever suspecting a thing.
I’ve often wondered what would have happened if either of us had turned back somewhere along the way. If fear had won. If uncertainty had convinced us not to take the next step. But standing here today, I can’t imagine a better story than the one we’ve been given.
Thank you for saying yes.