Year: 1998

Our wedding on April 15, 1998, at CSI Church, Marthandam, was perfect. We were now one—heart, soul, and dreams. The love was so strong, it felt like even burning a feather could break us apart. (Yes, we were that dramatic!)

The American Dream… Almost

I had an H1 visa for the USA, so I quit my job at TCS. My wife proudly told her friends, “We’re going to America!” Her mom, a government nurse, announced it to the whole town. Her dad, a retired craftsman, spread the news to every relative.

But there was one problem—my wife didn’t have a passport.

The Passport Drama

Me: “We need to apply for her passport first!”

Father-in-law: “No, apply for the visa first, passport later.”

Me: “But… you need a passport to GET a visa!” (Facepalm.)

After some convincing, he reluctantly agreed. Thankfully, the Trichy Passport Office liked us (or took pity on us) and issued an urgent passport. Soon, the whole village was talking—”They’re flying to America!”

Visa Rejection – Heartbreak!

One week later, my wife faced the American Consulate… and got rejected.

She burst into tears. “Will you go alone and leave me here?”

I looked at her pale face and said nothing.

But inside, my decision was made—I wouldn’t go without her. No job, no America was worth being apart. I even started looking for jobs in India. “If we stay together, our love will soar like an eagle!” we told ourselves.

Round 2 – The Visa Interview

I analyzed the rejection and prepped her for a second attempt.

Me: “You must prove you’re my wife. Carry our marriage certificate, wedding photos—everything!”

Her: “But… I AM your wife!” (Innocent confusion.)

Me: “Yes, but the consulate needs proof! And don’t say anything extra!”

Her: “Okay, okay!” (Big smile, head nod.)

The Miracle at the Consulate

On May 22nd, we went to Cathedral Church in Chennai, near the consulate. She prayed hard. Then, she walked in for the interview…

No questions. No arguments. Just—APPROVED!

We jumped with joy! God had answered.

God’s Promise – Two Became One

This verse became our truth:

“At the beginning, God made man and woman. A man leaves his parents, joins his wife, and they become one. So, no one should separate what God has joined.” – Mark 10:6-9

America could wait. But our love? That was unstoppable.