The other day I was reading through an old journal and came across an interesting entry. Since we celebrated our second anniversary yesterday, I thought I'd share it.
"Then there's Ryan. I'm pretty sure he's been interested for several months. I've just sensed it somehow, and Hillary told me today that she's thought so too for a couple of months. I'm not really sure what to think. I'm interested in him too, but I'm not sure if it's a good idea because he's 24 years old (five years older than me) and he's graduating next April. I know this sounds silly, but what if it did result in marriage? That would be a big step because I'd probably end up leaving BYU to go wherever he goes for graduate school, and besides that I'm really young and I have a lot of college left. It would change a lot of my plans. That's something I have to consider. I know I'm looking way farther ahead than I should, but it does bother me."
Two weeks later, we were dating. It was funny to read that journal entry and realize that it all happened, just as I suspected. Part of me was reluctant even to write that paragraph because I was afraid that I would read it later and laugh that I ever thought I was going to marry Ryan.
I've always thought it was interesting that I could tell there was something different about Ryan. I felt from the moment I met him that I should keep an eye on him. I was afraid that I had been making it up all along and there really wasn't anything, but I was also interested to see if it was real. I think he had similar thoughts. It didn't take long for me to start feeling very comfortable with him. I loved our conversations, and I especially loved his testimony. I was amazed at the depth of his testimony. He understood so much about the gospel, and I realized that he had gained many of those insights by praying to understand them.
The best part is that we can be together forever because we were married and sealed together in the Lord's temple. I feel blessed that I found someone who is committed to making our marriage a celestial one. I'm grateful for an eternal companion who forgives me when I am unjust or impatient. We will have our challenges and trials, but we try to remember that those experiences will make us stronger if we will love each other unselfishly and help each other improve, progress, and have faith. I feel grateful for the eternal perspective that the gospel gives us, to have a testimony that great things are in store for us if we will keep the commandments and be faithful and true to Heavenly Father. Ryan and I have much to look forward to and much to work for.
