Akanke ti emi nikan. You are not just the best thing that has happened to me in recent years — as I’ve always told you — but I know deep in my heart that you are the best thing that will EVER happen to me. Your love and support have become the foundation for every great thing I believe our future will produce.

So many things stand out about you, but the most beautiful of them all is the patience you’ve grown because of your love for me. I know I’m a hot head — and I met you as one too — but I’ve watched you transform over the years into someone calmer, softer, and more patient. I notice it. I appreciate it. And I will never take it for granted.

You need to know that you are a rare breed in this generation. A beautiful one. You are different from the noise and the nonsense out there. You are a rare gem.

Please… allow me to keep you by my side, to protect you, to adore you, and to help you shine for the rest of our lives.

Akanke…