We have a confession. Both Ciari and I thirst for a good love story.
Why? A good love story is a sign of hope and optimism. The hopeful feeling you get while watching You've Got Mail parallels the feeling you get watching any Rocky film.
Good love stories are proof that in-between muddled text messages, bad first dates, ghosting stories, or instances of infidelity, there is a possibility that you can find someone right for you in a pool of 7.8 billion people. And that the future does not involve nine cats in your living room.
Ok, that is a bleak picture. Let me make it up to you with two love stories that will give you hope this Sunday.
Whether you are religious, atheist, agnostic, or adhere to any other belief system, there is still something extraordinary about two people finding each other.
Love Story One: Meet Chessie & James
Their love story is the opposite of love at first sight.
Chessie met James at church. Chessie sang while James played the drums on Sundays. He liked Chessie, yet she made it very clear that they did not stand a chance. She wasn't going to fall for a good looking boy who she thought was insincere with his faith.
So what did James do? He prayed for one year.
One day, after a year of ignoring James, Chessie received a digital envelope on her computer screen that mentioned that God's plan was going accordingly. And on that same day, James received a sign. During that time, a few of Chessie’s family and friends called her up, saying they dreamt that both James and her would end up married. Chessie panicked. How can someone she doesn’t even know end up as her husband? They weren't even trying to get to know each other. They didn't even flirt or communicate. With the signs hard to ignore, both Chessie and James decided to meet. And in that first meeting, they already knew before dating they would be married to each other one day.
You won't believe their love story. You can watch it here. Tell us, was it faith or fate?
Their love story is one that didn’t come without challenges.
On Finding Out Eric Was The One
Side Note: Eric is known as the Rock of The Philippines.
Before Rona relocated to the Philippines, her doctor found a cyst on her left ovary. It had already damaged the left Fallopian tube and ovary. And for her to have any chance of having a child in the future, he had to remove it right away to avoid any damage to the right.
At that time, she was dating Eric long distance. She told Eric, "Hey, I don't know if I can promise or guarantee to give you a child in the future. But, I will not hold it against you, and I understand if you just wanted to be friends."
She was stunned by his response," Doctors are brilliant. They're smart. But, they're not God. I don't just see you as a girlfriend but a potential wife. Come here, and I'll take care of you." That was the moment she decided to resign from her job and move to the Philippines.
Today, Eric and Rona have a son named Legend through IVF. She told Ciari and me, "The grass is always greener where you water it. I can always find a career anywhere, but love is hard to find. True love is hard to find. Once you think you've found it, give it a chance."
These stories are something else whether you believe in faith, fate, or luck. In hearing both these stories, we've learned two sides— on self and relationships. Here are some lessons that are worth remembering:
On self
1. Build a value system of things that matter to you.
2. Closed mouths don't get fed.
3. Grass is greener where you water it.
4. Get better, not bitter.
5. You will be complete if you practice self-love.
On relationships
1. Don't waste time. If you know, you know. Have goals and share them with someone you like. Don't date without an end in mind.
2. Ingredients to a great sex life are patience, willingness to learn, active listening, and generosity.
3. Everyone can have a great love story if you enjoy the process of understanding each other.
4. We have too many conditions before we choose to settle down. You will never accomplish all on your list. The most important question is— can you imagine a life with him or her?
5. Love is unconditional. Love is about sacrifice and compromise. You have to be ready to go through thick and thin. Don't forget to dream together.
6. When you are just starting a relationship, build from ground zero. Ask yourself what culture do you want to make together?
Share this with a friend who needs a good love story.
Perhaps, you’re feeling lonely lately and missing your past social life? Don’t worry. We hear you. Here’s how to find and keep new friends during the pandemic, according to NYTimes. This line is our favorite!
“Being intentional, being available, being reliable and being excited are all things that work in your favor.”
Next Week's Episode is All About Growth & Support in A Relationship
We’re also curious— is food the way to someone’s heart?
