We found each other the old-fashioned way — through our mothers. Not an app, not a chance encounter, not a meet-cute in a coffee shop. Our mothers. Which means Jamila's mother will absolutely be taking full credit for this marriage for the rest of her natural life, and honestly, she has earned every bit of it.

We didn't bond over building blocks, dolls, or toy trucks like most childhood friendships. No, we were far too competitive for all of that. Our connection was forged through board games, battles of knowledge, and the enthusiastic, fully committed declaration of "BOLOGNA!" at every possible opportunity. We were the kind of kids who fact-checked each other before fact-checking was cool. Decades of combined knowledge will do that to you.

Now, it must be said that John's mother knew something the rest of us were still figuring out. She told him on more than one occasion that he should have married Jamila. Let that sink in. The woman was a prophet, a matchmaker, and apparently not above a little holy interference in the name of love. She went home to glory about ten years ago, but if you listen closely on October 3rd, that joyful noise you hear just might be her dancing and singing in heaven, finally watching what she always knew was supposed to happen. We have no doubt she has already taken her seat in the best section of the celestial gallery and has been bragging to anyone who would listen. She waited a long time to be right about this, and she was right all along.

What was true in the beginning is still true now. We have always been completely and unapologetically authentic with each other. Whether that looks like Jamila's natural leadership abilities (bossy, her word, not ours, okay it's ours) or John's legendary can do attitude (the man will attempt anything, pray for him and keep the first aid kit close), they never lost that honesty. Through all the seasons of life doing exactly what life does, they kept checking on each other. A phone call here, a how are you there. Quietly, consistently, faithfully showing up.

And then God, who has the absolute best timing and zero obligation to explain Himself, decided that now was the moment. A little wiser. A little more seasoned. A few more laugh lines and hard won lessons between them. Still bossy. Still willing to attempt things that require good insurance. Still calling bologna when the situation demands it.

We are not the same people who faced off over a board game all those years ago. We are better. And we are walking into this next chapter with full hearts, grateful spirits, and the very good sense to finally stop playing games and just say yes to each other.

To everyone who is here celebrating for us and with us, thank you. You are part of this story too, and we would not have it any other way. 🥂