💌 #8 Love, Finally in Person

My favorite month, January, which has lingered in my heart for a long time, has finally arrived. After all these months of waiting and conversing, I used to think we would finally be standing face to face by now. The fact remains, nevertheless, that we have not yet met. Life moves at its own pace, and although the day hasn't arrived, my optimism remains unshaken. Despite my doubts, I am still holding out hope that it will happen soon.

On occasion, I'll shut my eyes and try to feel the anticipation building until that day arrives. Just thinking about it makes my heart rush and my nerves jangle. He'll be approaching me in no time. I picture his smile, which I've only ever seen on video conversations, and how much more inviting it will be when we meet in person. After all that waiting, I can just picture us standing there for a few seconds, too elated to say anything, simply taking it all in.

For this time now, still, our story will go on via text messages, phone calls, and infinite compassion. Every day, we continue to speak. We are still preparing for that day, praying that all the pieces will soon be in place. I can sense our connection deepening even if we haven't met in person. The challenges of distance, including different time zones, periods of stillness, and an air of uncertainty, have brought our love for one another to the forefront. Lovers like this don't let the miles pass. Because of trust, it flourishes.

Sometimes I get a little down, thinking about how long it will be until we finally meet. Wondering what it will be like for us, I see other couples holding hands, laughing, and snapping photos side by side. Then it hits me: our tale is unique. The fact that it's taking place on a screen doesn't make it any less real. Pieces of something genuine and valuable are contained in every message, every joke, and every shared ambition.

His constant words of encouragement are to remain patient and trust that our moment will arrive. And so do I. I have faith in him, in our relationship, and in our vow. Meeting quickly isn't always the most important thing; being resilient while waiting is. What sets this love apart is the fact that we are learning to love slowly, to trust without doubt, and to hope while waiting.

Perhaps our meeting will last longer than anticipated. The anticipation may have made it more stunning in the end. Love isn't a competition, I've come to understand. Every conversation, phone call, and word of encouragement counts along this path. These instances are as genuine as any physical contact. They form the basis of something enduring.

Somehow, I am at peace as I type this. We shall meet, although the specific time is uncertain to me. Our caring for one another, our willingness to speak our minds, and our unwavering determination all give it away. What we share together will endure long after the physical separation has faded.
I will continue to wait, lovingly and patiently, hopefully, for the time being. Because the waiting may be just as wonderful as the meeting when it comes to love. "It was worth every second." I'll be able to look at him with a grin on my face when that day arrives.