Prior to Sandy's graduation from FIU, we became betrothed whilst participating in religious activities at the local church. Sandy's family, including her ardent father who eventually assumed the role of a deacon, willingly accompanied her in joining the same congregation. During the festive season of Christmas, it was customary for us to venture across Miami in order to marvel at the traditional display of illuminated decorations. Sandy's unwavering dedication to her studies at the university was rewarded with a prestigious scholarship based on her exceptional academic prowess. Following her triumphant graduation, where she attained the third highest academic standing in her class at FIU, we both diligently endeavored to establish a prosperous life together. Driven by our shared desire to embark on the journey of parenthood, we mutually agreed to invest in a modular abode. With the invaluable assistance of Sandy's grandfather, we procured a property that could be renovated to cater to our specific needs and preferences.

I meticulously renovated our recently restored home with meticulous attention to detail, systematically readying it for occupancy following our legal marriage. Our wedding took place in a large Baptist church, where we adhered to the customary practice of a formal sit-down meal. Sandy's father, a dedicated individual, expertly crafted delectable dishes.

We promptly embarked on our honeymoon to central Florida, where we stayed in a privately-owned house located by a beautiful lake that served as a vacation home for our grandfather. Our initial plan was to indulge in the tranquility of this ideal location for a week. However, our plans were abruptly altered due to the peaceful passing of my maternal grandmother. As a result, we quickly returned to Miami to attend a private funeral. Unexpected circumstances led us to extend our stay away from the lake house for an additional week, during which we found solace and contentment. In our younger years, we would often visit a lake house on weekends where we were taught swimming, skiing, and diving. This brought immense joy to both my wife Sandy and me, resembling a social utopia. Little did we know that during this particular visit, Sandy had become pregnant, a revelation that only came to light upon our return to our modest dwelling. It seems that some force beyond our control ensured that Sandy remained at home.

Furthermore, alongside the endeavor of establishing a family, Sandy encountered an unfavorable incident at the adjacent hospital where she wholeheartedly committed herself to her profession. It is unmistakably apparent that a divine influence was intentionally directing and preparing us for a grander purpose. A noteworthy aspect that will assuredly be observed is the deviation from the customary behaviors and expectations exhibited by conventional married couples by Sandy and myself. Through deep reflection upon oneself, I unequivocally realized that genuine and enduring contentment within our dynamic familial structure would not be attained solely by prioritizing our own desires, but rather by dedicating our efforts towards fulfilling the cultural needs of others through acts of benevolence.