On November 9, 2003 at the top of the Sears Tower in Chicago, I asked Laryssa to be my girlfriend.

Since then, she has been my trusted friend, confidante, shoulder to cry on, partner in crime, and the vessel of my devotion and love. She has helped me to heal from many things in my past, not just events that have taken place in our shared church history. It may be cliche, but it is true that I do not know how I survived the years before I knew her. I never want to be far from her.

We have been through much during our friendship, but praise be to God that He has seen us through every difficulty and shared in every joy. The Lord has shown me tremendous grace and love through the heart of my friend. For this, I am always greatful.

I look forward to what the future holds with full faith and assurance that I’ll always have a friend in Jesus and I’ll always have the heart of one that is closer than a brother.

I love you, m’lady fair. Happy anniversary.