Gabriel

Tell Us Your Story

My name is Gabriel. I go by Gabe. Sort of like the character for the movie, The One, where your necklace originates from, although I'm from more of a Hispanic descent, not an Asian background. I'm not a big, die-hard action fan, but I do own that movie from a short trip to China I went on, and I've always liked the necklace. That's neither here nor there when it comes to the woman in my life, though. Her name is Heather.

Heather and I met and formed a friendship around The Beatles, church, and witticism. Our friendship grew into a relationship within the year. Even before Heather and I were dating, I was planning a trip to China. The purpose was to extend my horizons, and meet and help others in a country that fascinated me. I had a passion for China that went back a couple years. It turned out I would be teaching English to Chinese students, and going alone.

Heather and I became what I would never desire for couples — long-distance relationship people. It was such a sacrifice for Heather to understand why China was important for me, for her to encourage me and support me during that time. Our relationship was great before China, but in may ways, it flourished while I was there. Our communication excelled, and Heather even made it out to visit me during her Thanksgiving holiday.

After eight months, I came back with a short-term job lined up, but really for the purpose of proposing to my Love. I did, and we've been on a fun journey of engagement towards wedding right before this upcoming Thanksgiving. As you can see, this is why the Chinese characters of your Lasting Harmony Mandala have special implications for our relationship, and why the two separate pieces that can join as one whole, embodies and really works well for our relationship.

So, thank you. I know she'll love the necklace, which I'm going to give her as a surprise on our wedding day.

Gabe