“Shelyn

Wouldn’t you know it, apparently the name Shelyn means the *beloved woman* - she certainly was.

Look at this smile. Doesn’t she just melt your heart?

This may be the first and last image I share of her… only time will tell. Most likely she’ll be a character in my comic books, but again, time will tell if I can handle it. But look at her. This beloved woman. Oh I still get butterflies looking at her.

Often, her personality matched that insanely beautiful hair of hers. My goodness, she was so brazen, bold, passionate - she lived with such an intensity. It was almost like she knew somehow, she was destined to live a life that would be cut drastically too short. She loved nearly everyone, with her whole heart.

I’ve already written at length about how compassionate and inspiringly kindhearted this woman was, right? Well yeah, she was. I like to think I was already a sympathetic soul, trying to look out for those who were not as fortunate or privileged as I was. Yet somehow, she moved me to be so much more. To take a much more active role in changing the lives of others. She gave me courage, she gave me focus, she gave me competence – and drive, like I was provoked by this sweet, loving soul into significant action.

Shelyn and I met in college as both incoming freshmen, and we hit it off quickly. I wouldn’t say it was love at first sight, but only because we more rapidly became best friends first. But yeah, it didn’t take long. I had a crush going very concurrent with our budding friendship.

The day of this picture was – well maybe obviously, the day of our wedding. But what a day it was. Surrounded by love. We were both blessed with very progressive families who were truly supportive of our love. I mean we weren’t given full backing by every single family member, but I couldn’t complain. Both of us joined new extended families that day. And to this day, I still feel like I am a part of hers. Her mom, dad, and siblings, all remain a significant part of my life – and I am endlessly thankful for how blessed I was/am to have them in my life.

Character limits on IG are up soon– so I’ll end by saying thanks for all the love Chick. Our time was too short, but so sweet. I’ll never forget you, my beloved woman.