On Friday, December 3rd, 2010–while working in the Borders Express at Fox Valley Mall–a guy named Miguel Muñoz struck up a conversation with me and eventually asked me out. I explained that I’d prefer to get to know someone a bit before I dated them. We exchanged facebook information. He added me that night; I accepted the request. I found out he goes by “Junior.” We talked from midnight to 2 and when he said “So do you think you would like to go on a date with me now?”I said, “I think so.” And we did. On Sunday. Somehow he thought I was pretty cool and said he’d like to go on another date sometime. And we did.
I’m not sure how or why he put up with all my emotional blockages and breakdowns, the fact we had to “practice” holding hands so I wouldn’t be anxious, not to mention I was too afraid to give him a simple kiss until months after we officially started dating. He’s the sweetest man, great at encouraging and fun to be around. I finally let myself start to care about him as much as he cared about me. And I freaked out about how much I could lose because of my affections. Many times. And yet, he stuck with me. I’m not saying he’s relentlessly stoic, though, and I’m glad for times when I get to take a turn encouraging him. He continues to remind me that friendship and romantic love are worth the risk of loss. I think I’m finally learning.
It’s been great to get to know his circle of family and friends. I am grateful that they accept me, “approve,” and many consider me their friend–as I do them. This past year has been a beautifully challenging adventure. I wouldn’t change it for an endless supply of chocolate, kittens, deadline-free homework, or anything else. Mom and Dad, thank you for your support and mentoring; I really think we get along better. Rachel, you always have the greatest things to tell me about and I love talking with you. Chris, it’s been nice reconnecting with you through music. Junior, God has used you to teach me things about Himself and myself that just weren’t making sense before, as well as how to trust Him. You have given me a greater awareness of God’s love: since it is infinitely vaster than yours, I have been greatly underestimating Him.
I can imagine spending the rest of my life without Junior–and it’s neither pleasant nor desirable–which is why I am so glad that he proposed on Saturday, December 3, 2011. While it once took me by surprise, it does no longer: I love you! And it’s an honor to be loved by you.
