Mike had gone through a gruesome divorce, and his level of reluctance to get back into the
dating pool was understandable. He had been spending the last few years strengthening himself
and healing, but in his heart of hearts, he knew he'd like to find love again. Upon insistence from
friends, he gave online dating a shot. Jenna was added for similar reasons; she also had an
intolerable level of heartbreak. Neither of them expected much, but both were open to seeing
where things could lead.
I knew from the first message they had something. Mike and Jenna shared experiences with each
other, most significantly their journeys through loss and healing. There was a silent
understanding between them, and their connection felt safe and real. And rather than rushing,
they took their time getting to know one another-a joy to be found in the small, everyday
moments.
Their first date was simple: a walk in the park, followed by dinner at a cozy restaurant. That
night, however, they found themselves experiencing a level of comfort that neither one had
enjoyed in quite a long time. The next year merely continued them growing with each other to
support through all the ups and downs in life.
He proposed on their one-year anniversary in the same spot where they had their first beachside
dinner. Jenna said yes with the greatest enthusiasm, by then having fallen deeply in love. Mike
and Jenna are married, happy, and consider how those experiences readied them for this second
chance at a true love. “It’s not about finding love quickly,” says Mike. “It’s about finding the right
person when the time is right, and for us, that time is now.”