How did you meet? What was your first date like? Give us all the details!
ChristianMingle allowed us to meet in a way that is beyond my wildest dreams and imagination even to this day. We actually met before our first date even happened. While browsing through ChristianMingle, Erica’s profile caught my eye. She was new to the town that I lived in, an engineer (as am I), and loved deep conversation and coffee, but most importantly, it was evident that her heart was for the Lord, and seeking Him in all that she does.
I sent her a message. I wasn’t too sure if I would have a response back or not, but wanted to introduce myself and give it a try. About a week later, I was walking my dog in the apartment complex that I live in. I had recently had a new neighbor move in to the apartment above me, and saw her out walking and thought I would introduce myself to her. There was something captivating about her, and a type of familiarity that I couldn’t really place. We made small talk and introduced ourselves and I introduced my canine companion Sadie to her. I had a strange feeling that she looked familiar when I went back inside.
About an hour later, I noticed that I had a notification from ChristianMingle on my phone, with a new message from Erica waiting. I opened it up to see, “Jake … did we just meet?” I was amazed and in disbelief. From that message began a conversation that led to a coffee date, that led to more dates and adventures, and on November 11, 2016, it led to a proposal that would start the rest of our lives together. We are both amazed and humbled by the work of the Lord in this, and in the work of ChristianMingle. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that my future wife would be the girl who moved in upstairs, the girl who lives right next door.
Describe the moment you knew it was true love!
Erica and I discussed some tough yet important topics on life and our theology from the beginning. We talked about our struggles past and present, and we talked about our dreams. Since we were both relatively new to the area, we found a church that we could both belong to and get involved with. Looking back, I realize that was a pretty big commitment in itself, but I felt comfortable and confident whenever I was with her. We could talk and share openly about anything that we thought of. Our conversations grew longer, and deeper, and it was about a month into dating that I realized I was absolutely in love with this woman. We had both learned the hard lessons of love in our failed relationships prior, so we were abundantly cautious when the word was finally exchanged. Once I had told her that I was in love with her and wanted to love and serve her, I have never looked back.
What advice would you give other ChristianMingle members?
It is amazing the power of conversation. Don’t be afraid to have tough conversations and sharing openly with others as the relationship progresses and as appropriate in the stage of the relationship. Take the chance and risk of messaging people if you feel led. Don’t settle for easy conversation when you want something deeper. But at the same time, be realistic in your expectations for your relationship. Be honest, be open and be curious, you never know … the person you want to meet may be right next door.
Did you find love online? Submit your story to share how you met your soulmate on ChristianMingle.