Little Big Universe

Chloe and I have been dating for nine months now — a period long enough to carry a baby to term.

But fear not, we aren’t about to have a child just yet. One could say, however, that our relationship has undergone a critical developmental stage. Although we have moved past the honeymoon phase, our familiarity is accompanied by a steady, growing passion often nurtured by God’s grace.

To deepen our synergy, working through numerous points of friction is a must. We are a surprisingly good fit for each other, but certain areas still need much tweaking. Individually, there is ample room for improvement; together, we continue to encourage one another through our personal struggles.

It has also been a learning experience to walk with her spiritually. We study three things in rotation: the Gospel of Luke (scriptural reading), the Alpha Film Series (video and discussion), and a Mandarin devotional book focused on godly stewardship. Furthermore, I regularly lead her in prayer.

With each small, faithful step, we draw closer to something greater.

My Second Letter to Chloe

To my dearest Kitty Princess,

I write to you with cold hands, but from a warm heart.

Winter is here, and with it comes the fourth and final season before we complete our maiden orbit around the sun together. I am hopeful that this will be the first of countless revolutions to come.

Throughout the months, we have discovered the many ways that we fit together like a divine puzzle. However, as with any relationship, there are still differences to face, as well as adjustments to make. The process is indeed an ongoing trial all couples must navigate with grace, one that forges resilient bonds capable of conquering the ages, weathering fire and frost alike.

Looking at our expansive universe, the Creator has designed every small detail — of particular note: the level of fine-tuning necessary to sustain life on this magnificent planet is wonderfully astounding. And just as nature is a complex and interconnected system, we too are given our own relational unit, our own little world to build and steward. This becomes a delicate exercise of trust.

Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much,
and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.

— Luke 16:10 (NIV)

I am grateful that you have always taken the initiative to discuss and unpack life’s practical nuances. Through you, I am reminded that the road to eternity is walked one day at a time; our attentiveness for the mundane prepares us for the greater reality. You are the helper provided in my need.

As we gaze upward together, observing celestial bodies twinkling away to the tune of the Most High, my sincere hope is that we may one day be entrusted with a portion of God’s kingdom for his glory. You know that I love you, and I believe you are beginning to understand my vision for our future.

Thank you for being my sweet, supportive companion in journeying through this Little Big Universe!

Chloe’s Valentine Letter

Dearest Loyal Puppy,

Thank you for accepting my difficult past from the start of our relationship. Your warmth and care have allowed me to finally let down my guard. I can now just be a cute, beloved kitty around you.

You said you hoped to become the person I am attracted to. I have seen that transformation over these past months — your dedication in how you have tried to adjust your sleep schedule and stay active with exercise. Also, I love your passion for doing music too, as it helps you project confidence. Hearing you hum while I am in your arms is something I will cherish.

During the time we have spent together, we haven’t agreed on everything. But thank you for always being patient with my emotions and worries. It means a lot to me that you are willing to put in much effort and time communicating with me and trying to understand my feelings.

I also really appreciate how you step up when my life gets busy. Thank you for taking care of many meals and helping out with chores, as well as letting me have some personal time in the evenings. Our daily rhythms feel more harmonious now than when we first met.

And thank you for spoiling me — picking me up and driving me around, planning mystery dates, watching our favourite shows together, and tucking me into bed.

Most of all, thank you for loving me exactly as I am.

Happy Valentine’s Day to my bae!

Seven Grateful Memories of Chloe

The following compilation originates from the secret vault that is Chloe’s diary, documenting various things and gestures I have done for her that are worthy of being remembered:

1) 你貼心地幫我把床位重新調整擺放，讓我早上醒來時不會被強光照醒。
You repositioned my bed so that I wouldn’t wake up to piercing sunlight.

2) 你在雨天我穿拖鞋出門換成布鞋時，於捷運上細心地幫我把腳擦乾淨，讓我非常感動。
You wiped my feet dry with care after I had been out in the rain, which moved me deeply.

3) 你給予了我情感上的肯定，稱讚我聰明又成熟、講話很有依據。
You provided me with emotional affirmation, commended me for showing intelligence and maturity, and for giving solid reasoning to back up what I say.

4) 你在我上投資理財課程時，幫我準備美味的鮮蝦鍋貼晚餐，讓我能無後顧之憂專心上課。
You lovingly bought a delicious dinner (potstickers) for me while I was taking an investment course, so I could focus on my class without having to worry about anything else.

5) 你約會結束後主動幫忙叫車，確保我回家安全，並大方提供車資。
You called me an Uber after our date to make sure I got home safely, and covered the fare.

6) 你在我身體不適時，主動提議調整行程，沒有讓我在疲憊時感到社交的壓力。
You were understanding when I felt unwell, willing to readjust our schedule so that I could rest.

7) 你為了讓我更深刻感受心意，除了英文信外，還努力嘗試用不熟悉的中文寫信給我。
You made the effort to write me a letter in Mandarin, so as to express your sincerity.