JUDY CATHERINE

I've received a phone call, it was frightening. I didn't know what was going on. All I heard was hysterical crying and gibberish words coming out of her voice. I realized something was wrong and I asked her to calm down to tell me what was going on. She said "Something happen to your brother..." My heart stopped beating, I felt the blood stop circulating, my tremor hands couldn't hold on to my phone, I felt slight regurgitation in my esophagus and wanted to vomit but I couldn't... I wanted to go home. Anthony dropped his dinner and we both rushed into his car. He was going 80 mph in the rain and all I can think about was those words. I was terrified of what news was waiting for me at home.

We picked up my two younger brothers and he informed us that my brother was robbed nearby halfway going home by three low lives who followed him after he saw his high tech iPhone along with his wallet which includes hundred dollars, credit card and IDs. He fought but he was outnumbered. I was relieved he endured a couple of scrapes and bruises rather than taking his life.

Growing up, my parents remind us that there are things in life that are replaceable but your life is not. If someone tries to hurt you for something you have, gladly give it to them rather than giving up your life. I'm proud of what my brother did. In today's society, everyone wants to take revenge. I believe in karma and I do hope that those low lives will get what they deserve. I'm just blessed nothing happened.

After six months, I finally accept the fact that my parents love Anthony. They respect who is - his passion, his intellect, his security and his love for me. - they see how I'm in the state of euphoria when I'm around him. Although, I think my father is quite intimated of him. Through it all, I don't think I can ever find a man that my parents love for me. For years, I've seen his perseverance of what could be between the two of us and he proved me wrong. I am so glad I have him in my life and I couldn't ask for more.