When I was 12 years old, I met a cute boy in my PE class who sat next to me every day. I developed quite the infatuation for him in a short amount of time. When it was time to run laps around the track, he would always run next to me; we even had playful races. We started to talk, and I’d be lying if I said it was easy. We were both insanely shy, and I’d blush whenever I talked to him. I was the only girl he hugged back then, and to a junior high girl, that was a big deal. I remember always wanting to hold on a little bit longer before our embrace broke, but of course I was never brave enough to do it. As time passed, we developed a bond, and we spent more time with each other deepening our feelings for one another, but both too hesitant to make a move. We remained good friends until our senior year, where things finally fell into place.

It took us until our senior year of high school to finally be able to confess our feelings for one another. I was terrified of falling in love. My whole life, I’ve seen the worst abuse from the men of my family: my grandpa, my dad, my uncles. I was convinced from a young age that it isn’t possible for a guy to love me. But it took great lengths for this guy to convince me that he isn’t like the others. He actually keeps all of his promises. He hasn’t broken one since we first got together. He went above and beyond his comfort level to romance me. He had to ask me out on a date three times before I could actually be able to go. He was so persistent. How could I refuse? He finally asked me to be his on December 13, 2008. We were at church and it was toward the end of mass. We were doodling on his hand and we drew a heart and smiley face. Then he wrote “Will you be mine?” I didn’t answer right away. I actually didn’t say anything but I smiled and looked into his eyes. And I didn’t have to say anything for him to know that my answer has always been yes. This is our first relationship we’ve ever had, and we got lucky because we know we are made for each other.

He is currently in the Marines, and he deployed at the moment. And although distance separates us physically, it can never separate our hearts. His love for me has gotten me through great hurdles and it motivates me to work hard for our future. The most important thing I learned is nothing great in life comes easily, this included. We’re getting married in 6 years. It may seem like a long time, but when you find a guy as perfect as this, you would wait a lifetime.

Who knew that I would meet my soulmate at the age of 12.

Semper Fidelis. “Always Faithful.” I promise you I will always wait for you.

Frank and I as 13 year olds at eighth grade Winterball.

Frank and I dressed up for our two year anniversary dinner.

Our promise rings.

My promise.