When I was 16, a boy at school told me, “no guy will ever want you.”
That stuck with me longer than I'd like to admit. I was the awkward Lebanese girl at a very white school. I graduated dangerously insecure … and decided to hyper-focus on becoming the best me.
For years, I hardly dated. Never had a boyfriend. Never felt worthy of marriage.
Eventually, I became so obsessed with personal growth that I convinced myself marriage would get in the way.
Then, on July 14, 2018, I walked into an Egyptian Coptic church for a wedding. An incredibly handsome guy … the kind who’d never talk to someone like me … walked by and said, “whoa, looking good.”
My heart dropped.
He DM’d me, which turned into texting every day. We were completely different. He was unemployed, confused about his career path, and prioritized serving his church + family. His dream was to take care of his mom. Mine was to be a renowned journalist. I felt so drawn to him, but knew we’d never work.
One night, he asked if we could officially “date.” Going against my racing heart, I said no; I was returning to Lebanon and didn’t want to give up my goals. “Of course you don’t,” Tom said. “You have dreams to chase first.”
I was blown away. But as my feelings grew, so did my worries. At another date, I told Tom I wasn’t ready for a relationship and needed to step back.
He said no. He took my hands, looked me in the eyes, and said he would do everything in his power to become the man I needed.
That moment changed my life.
Tom chose me, and nothing was going to change his mind.
Since that day, he’s shown me a love I never thought possible...
The kind in which he applied to (and recently graduated from) an MBA program to build a future for us -- before I agreed to date him; worked his butt off, going from an intern to full-time employee, to save up for an engagement ring; booked me a ticket to Lebanon to prove he’ll be my #1 supporter.
The kind in which he dedicates hours a week to visiting my family members + serving his church; drives an hour to my house when I’m anxious, just to pray with me and give me a hug; looks at me like I’m the only girl on earth, even when I’m in a terrible mood or not wearing makeup; promises he’ll take care of me, no matter what our situation.
Unwavering, unconditional love.
The way God loves us.
On July 14, 2018, I walked into Tom’s church and thought I knew what life was about.
Tomorrow, I’m walking into that same church. This time, to take the hand of the greatest man I’ve ever met … to lead me, our home, our future children. Because the way Tom loves and lives has changed my life. His example makes me want to be a better person. He leads me toward Christ -- which is what I’ve needed all along.
I cannot wait to see you at the altar, 7ayat albi ❤️