Essence

May God continue to bless you throughout your journey of "endless love"

-Cliff & Treva Rice

Congraduation Go head Eugene how could K endra resist a propsal like that it gave me chills may the lord bless you both and keep you and bless you with many children you make a wonderful couple.

-Weblite

Eugene & Kendra, I wish you all the best. You are a beautiful couple.Stay true to your relationship and grow together in Christ. May God bless you both......P.S. And may he also bless your union with the blessings of your own family.

-D. Shahdaiah

Hello Eugene and Kendra, "Endless Love" was my song to a man I though would always love me unconditional, yet it did not happen, but "God" does and he is my husband today and forever more. May God Bless you as "ONE"!

-Fran Camper

i really like your big engagement ring it is so pretty congradulations!!!

-tiana

congradulation on your new engagement, I wish you two all the best.. bless you and your family for many more year to come.. keep the love, keep the happiness, and keep the faith for only he knows your true will.congradulations once again.

-shameka & michael

THE LORD HAS GRANTED YOU THE GIFT OF LOVE, YOU WERE MADE FOR EACH OTHER. AND WHAT GOD HAS PUT TOGETHER, LET NO MAN TEAR APART, SO CONGRADULATIONS AND I WISH YOU THE BEST.

-MR & MRS COWANS

Seeing the two of you together made my HEART sing!!!!!

Have a wonderful life together and never go to bed angry.

Best Wishes

Gloria

gftzgrld@memphis.edu

-Gloria Fitzgerald

Seeing the two of you together made my heart sing!!!!!

-Gl

It is truly a beautiful thing to marry the one you truly love. Black is beautiful, but black love is truly that and beyond. God bless your marriage and family.

-N. L. Anthony

I am so happy for you an your husband to be. An may god carry your new beginning a very long way. Best wishes.

-Laquine Quattlebaum

Oh my Gosh, I'am so glad that you both are the 2008 Winners!!!!!!

When I first read your story, you both captured my heart. You both are a wonderful couple, and I wish you the best in your marriage. Marriage is a wonderful experience, just remember to pray together, and always keep God in your life. Remember to always communicate with each other, and compromise. I wish you both the best in your future, and may God continue to Bless you!!!!!

-Miko & Travis

You both make a beautiful couple. Good luck

-Robert & Mikila

lovely

-D.Gooch

It was wonderful to see young black men proposing. But to actually take the time out to apply to contest was amazing. It shows that black love is beautiful and that our men are the best.

I really wish you the best in your marriage. I pray that God blesses and keep you all daily.

Sincerly,

-Aledria E. Ragland (Memphis, TN)

It was wonderful to see young black men proposing. But to actually take the time out to apply to contest was amazing. It shows that black love is beautiful and that our men are the best.

I really wish you the best in your marriage. I pray that God blesses and keep you all daily.

Sincerly, Aledria E. Ragland (Memphis, TN)

-Aledria E. Ragland (Memphis, TN)

You make a beautiful couple. I pray that God will be 1St in your lives.

-pamela henderson

Congrats!

Kay

Memphis

-Anonymous

I would first of all like to say that I am a newly divorced mother of three(all grown) I am 41 yrs. old and I had given up on love, that is, untill I saw you guys! I cried and cried while watching the love that this man has for this woman(meaning you two). I t moved my heart and let me know that real love still exist. Please always put God first in your marriage, and for the husband, communicate, communicate, communicate with your wife. And for the wife, never take for granted that your man will love you no matter how you look, or act, because our black men have to deal with so much, and they need to know that at the end of the day, they can go home to that loving and fine black woman, their wife."

-Deborah Henderson

Congratulation guys!

-Ylonda Houston,Tx

You two are so special. I pray God blesses your union and keeps you as an example of all that can be when you open your heart! Peace and blessings- Charlene

-Anonymous

Congratulations Kendra, I am so happy for you guys!! That was so romantic! I wish you the best. Keep God first and you will live happily ever after!

-Dayna

Hi Guys,

Congratulations to you both! I voted for you and I am so happy to see that you won. May God bless you and your marriage. Keep God first, each other secondly and your family last!

-S. Warner

Congratulations Eugene and Kendra. I send up in Jesus name that you all will make it thru life together. My tid bit of advice is always talk about everything, never go to bed angry at each other, make sure you are each others best friends. Please keep family and friends out of your household affairs. Everyone has an opinion about what should be done with what ever situation you encounter, but at the end of the day it will still be your marriage and lives togheter.

May God grant you all the footsteps you will need in your marriage.

Remember to mirror your lives in 3 steps:

God first

your marriage and yourselves 2nd

Family and friends 3rd.

-Bridgette Anderson/houston, texas

What an attractive couple.

-Jacqui Robinson

CONGRATS! I'm so in love with BLACK LOVE. God bless you both and let no man put asunder this union made in heaven.

-Faith of VA

GOD BLESS THE BOTH OF YOU ....AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-SHIRLUN

I have nothong but best wishes for both of you. Please remember to keep God first in your marraige and keep her as your best friend and this union will sustain through the good and bad. I myself am planning to propose to a women God put in my life eigth months ago,But I've known her over ten years so please keep us in your prayers.

God Blessed,

-Kevin Nutter

Eugene and Kendra, keep those positive thoughts and go forth to produce little adverbs and adjectives to make your Permanently an entirety. Keep GOD First. Much Love.

-Linda C./BlkAng

Congratulations to you both!!!!!!! This is a beautiful thing and I'm happy for you.

-Erica Farris

You two show how when God is in the plans, wonderful things will happen. Stay true.

-Mrs R. Breaux

YOU GAYS DESERVED TO WIN BECAUSE EUGENE KEEP IT REAL IN HIS PROPOSAL AND KENDRA YOUR FATHER WAS THE ICING ON THE CAKE,BE SURE TO THANK HIM WISHING YOU THE BEST MARRIAGE EVER IN GOD. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BY THE WAY ,LOVED THE RING!!!!!!

-CATHERINE MANUEL

Congratulations to Mr. Glover and Kendra.

May God continue your path to beautiful blessings and in the comfort of His love always.

-Ms. K. Ross

True unconditional love, something so rare these days. I believe that the two of you are off to a good start, remember to always put god first in your lives and may god bless you.

-monica H

Congratulations Kendra & Eugene, as I read your letters they brought tears to my eyes, the words were so sincere with passion and tenderness. I'm not there, but I felt the vibes. This is a Godly love that we are all looking for. Keep God first in your life, whatever you do and he will continue to bless this union.

-Glenda Turner

Hi Kendra & Eugene,

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!! Wishing you both the best marriage in the world. I felt the love between both of you and that's beautiful.............from Theresa A in New Jersey. I am formerly from Meigs, Georgia, 30 miles from Albany,Ga.

P.S. Enjoy the gift from Essence, that's a Blessingl.....

-Anonymous

Kendra!

I saw you in Essence magazine while in the library. It was a trip seeing someone I knew in a magazine like that.

Congrations on your proposal/win/...marriage (did it happen yet?)

Marriage is a beautiful thing, if that's what you want it to be. It's all what you make of it.

My wife and I will celebrate our 2nd anniversary this June.

I can say, without the least bit of shame, that marrying my wife was one of the best decisions of my life. She has helped me to develop into being better man.

I cannot imagine my life without her now.

I'm sure everyone has already told you, but this is worth repeating.....keep God in your life.

Much love and success to you and your husband.

We need more love in the world!!!

-pierre johnson

Eugene & Kendra I hope that you two will be together happily married for the rest of your lives. I think you are the perfect couple. Good luck and Best wishes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-Malinda Black

Congratulations... I would like to wish you both all the happiness and peace that being in love can offer. There are so many new experiences and challenges that lie ahead. Celebrate in each other the love, joy and commitment to becoming one...BEST WISHES.....enjoy your wedding day.

-Kawanna Harris

Eugene & Kendra, you two are so beautiful and genuine, may God bless your union and I pray that you will remember this moment of the proposal and prep for the proposal when things are not well in your marriage. May it sastain you to where it brings you back to this place. Of all the couples I thought you really were a real couple and I loved, loved, loved that Eugene asked your father for your hand in marrage and how you hugged and kissed you father. We need more of this. Please post you pics of the wedding and honey moon. I current have a friend who puts me in the mind of Eugene, knows what to say; how to say it and when to say it. I hope it turns out as well as it did for you Kendra

Be Blessed, Felicia

Cove Photography.

-Felicia Williams

Your story was beautiful and I wish you both blessings and continued love in your future as one. Congratulations!

-Mrs. Davis

I am very happy for this couple and I believe, that their love will be strong, everlasting. May you be happy.

-Galia

I am 59. Not necessarily a romantic. But Eugenes proposal and Kendra's response are the most refreshing expressions I have heard in a long time. Kendra is delightful. Marriage is a wonderful union. It requires real love. Are you familiar with the timeless advice given in the Bible? First Corinthians chapter 13, verses 4-8 defines love. It says "Love is long-suffering and kind. Love is not jealous,...does not behave indecently, does not look for it's own interest, does not become provoked. It does not keeep account of the injury. .......It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures al things. Love never Fails." Ephesians 5:28, 29 says"...Husbands ought to be loving their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wifeloves himself, for no man ever hated his own flesh; but he feeds and cherishes it... and verse 33 of the same chapter says "...Let each one of you individually so love his wife as he does himself; on the other hand, the wife should hav

-Gail Taylor

!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!! Mr. Glover and Ms. Kendra, May God???s blessing be with you throughout your new life together. Remember to put each other first above everything except God. Also, divorce is not an option ??? marriage is a life sentence. :-)??s to long life until death do you part. Hip Hip Hooray???

-The Hatcher Family

you are a very lovely couple may god be with you and bless you

-sharonmorrisbrown

Dear Eugene & Kendra

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! IN A BIG WAY MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU IN LOVE AND

JOY ALWAYS AND FOR EVER. YOU ARE A LOVELY COUPLE.

-JENNY O

Hi eugene & kendra, am so happy for u two. just keep on loving and respect each other and God will see you through. wld want to read from you wen the babies start coming. enjoy ur marriage

-afua appiah-kubi

hi eugene & kenddy, just to wish you happy marriage and live to love and respect each other. keep the promises and God will definitly see you through .

-af

Hi eugene and kenddy this is afua . all the best in ur marriage. just keep being loving and respect each other.

-afua appiah-kubi

Dear Eugene and Kendra,

Thank you for sharing your love story with so many of us who are lovesick. I am in a committed relationship, and for the first time in 20 years, I can say that I am happy and I feel loved. Eugene, your proposal contained key words that all women want to hear their man say: you feel that with Kendra's love you can conquer all and that if you had 100 lives, that you would never find someone like her. It was inspiring, to say the absolute least. What an incredible look into a romance that we all hope to experience. You guys betta go 'head!

-Lenora

Black love is truly beautiful....God bless you two..

-Valery

ALLWAYS REMEMBER THIS TIME TOGETHER ,THROUGH THE GOOD AND THE BAD. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH.

-KATRINA

It's so wonderful to see a couple so inlove I wish you both many blessings of peace and true happiness and always remember these two things are a essential asset to any relationship and can only be given ownership to those who put God Almighty first before anything or anyone that or who means more to you than life itself as we live in this world we come to the conclusion that although money is important being able to wake up and lay down with the one you vowed before God to spend the rest of your life with and not renig or regret this day but rejoice to the heavens each time you lay eyes on one another with the eternal flame burning from one wick which is your love for each other is priceless remember that you may go through your storms but as long as God is your foundation you can get through anything

-signed sealed and delivered in Jesus nam

Congratulations Eugene & Kendra. You are a beautiful couple. I can wish for nothing but blessings from above for you both!

-DKB

Hello My name is Lillian and I`m from New Orleans , La . I`m been married for 21 years. I wanted to tell you all that it takes 3 for a marriage to work . (God , You and the wife ) . Be strong in the Lord and your marriage should work. And also don`t telleverybody your problems give it to the Lord and he will work it out .

-lilliansingleton@sbcglobal.net

Best Wishes to the both of you!! I am truly glad that you were the winners of this contest! Your hearts seemed truly pure and I haven't seen two people more in love than the both of you in a long time!!

I pray that God blesses your wedding and marriage. As long as you keep God first, have an open line of communication, always trust one another , you'll never go wrong.

God Bless!!!

-Kristel, MI

Dear Kendra,

Congratulations on finding happiness with Eugene. Its been a long time since

we all grew up together in Orangeburg. I wish you both the best.

-Excel

Congratulation on the win for the Will You Marry Me contest. Just remember to keep God first in your marriage and you will be able to conquer any obstacle. May God Bless the marriage. I am 39 years old and never been married I know God will place my Prince in due time. I would love to get married someday. You did right by becoming friends first.

-Felicia Rounds, Memphis, TN

Congratulation on the win for the Will You Marry Me contest. Just remember to keep God first in your marriage and you will be able to conquer and obstacle. May God Bless the marriage.

-Felicia Rounds

congrats! you are a beautiful couple and I wish you many many years of a succesful marriage filled with respect and love.

-Dawn

HELLO ALUMNUS KEndra, best wishes to you and your soulmate Eugene.Bring him to the AKA Boule or our Homecoming and let him experience how a fine, smart,and loveable African American Woman is created. May God bless you both Love Soror Sonya Summers '87

-Sonya Summers

Congratulations, hope everything goes well with you two. Marriage is a wonderful thing.

-Latoya Parks

Good to see the both of you in Essence.You both look great GOD BLESS!You Kendra and Eugene

-Linda Marbury B'Ham,Alabama

Eugene & Kendra, Always remember this (if you don't depoist you can not withdrawn) My God continue to bless you both.

-Janet Battle Creek MI

Congratulations on being the top winner.I prayed for the two of you as well as voted many times.May you have a wonderful life together, and never fail to enjoy each other, and complement each other.

-N.E.Lamb

Congratulations Kendra and Eugene!! I hope you have many, many years of wedded bliss!

-Donna Harvey

Congrats to you both. Let me start by saying starting out as best friends makes for a wonderful relatetionship because you will have lots and lots of good time together and very few down times. I know I've been with my husband for a little over 25 years and we were good friends before we married and we have sooooo much fun together. i love spending time with him because he makes me laugh all the time as do I. And even though our youngest is away in college we still act like we did when we were young.

So enjoy enjoy make babies and enjoy them too but most of all enjoy each other and the fact that you don't just have a partner and lover but a very good friend to boot. God bless you both.

-Mrs Renee Young

Hello Eugene and Kendra. I am 26 years old and have never been married so I have no advice for such a lovely couple but I will say that I pray that God blesses this marriage to no end. My parents have been married for 32 years and they set a good exampleof how a marriage is suppose to be maintained, always put God first. Hopefully one day God will take me down this beautiful path that you both are about to begin. God Bless!

- LaKishia Fell

Congratulations Eugene & Kendra on being the 2008 winners and on your engagement. It is my prayer that your lives together will be just as beautiful as you are. I have just a small list of "nuggets" of advice:

1. remain true to yourselves, and eachother

2. keep Christ first in your lives and always pray together each day

3. Kendra, as a wife, it is your responsibility to encourage Eugene, pray for him ( in every area) and support him and be his #1 cheerleader!

4. Eugene, it is your responsibility to provide for Kendra, encourage and pray for her (in every area) and support her and be her #1 cheerleader!

5. be thankful for the little things!

6. keep the communication lines open and honest, even if it hurts. In other words, say it in love andwith tact.

I hope this helps, and again, congratulations to you both!

Peace & Blessings!

-Carolyn Frink

Hello Eugene & Kendra "CONGRADULATIONS" I wise you two all of Gods blessing to be bestowed upon you. I too believe I have found the right man in my life, and he feels he has found the right woman (me). We both have never been married, in our mid 50's, and talking of marriage for the near furture.....Love Janice--. By the way if you are able to write back my email is jbrown9023@nc.rr.com

-Janice Brown

Congrats on your win, I was hoping my 23 votes would help the HOME Team. May God be with you and keep your marriage at peace and may it be Blessed.

-Faysha Handy-COVINGTON

Praise The Lord Eugene and Kendra!

I pray that God will bless your union and that the two of you will continue to grow with one

another as you become one with another!

Congratulations and God Bless You Both!

In Jesus Name I Pray,

Minister and Sister DL Long

-Minister & Sister DL Long

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kendra you deserve all that God has in store for you; I hope you and Eugene's lives are filled with happiness, love, and trust.

-Shay Cunningham

Hi Kendra & Eugene!

I just wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS to you both. I voted for you guys and I see that you won. I'm so happy for you both.

O-W Class of 1997 classmate

-Naiesha (Kearse) Whetstone

Hey Kendra, Congratulations!!!!!!! I voted I don't know how many times. I pray that you and Eugene have a happy and loving marriage. Love Ya Lots!!

-Davida (Nikki)

Hey Kendra, This is Chiamaka Kalu from O'burg. Remember me? Congrats!!!!!! May God continue to bless you. Tell your mom I said hello. :-)

-Chiamaka Kalu

You are a lovely couple and will have a long lasting relationshop because you were friends first. Congradulations!!!

- Scooter

to both,as you become one ALWAYS remember to cherish & love each day the way you did when you realized that it was each other you wanted. ALWAYS put GOD first in all you do and each other next, no one comes before the other. God Bless and may happiness and love forever be in you hearts.

-laritta gregory

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so glad that you won!!!! Special shout out to you and your future wife. Hope you both share a loving life together forever on. Congrats!!! From your 5th grade student, Monica Johnson

-Monica Johnson (from 5th grade)

HEY GUYS,

yOU ALL DO NOT KNOW ME, BUT I WORKED WITH KENDRA 'S DAD. I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU BOTH. ALWAYS KEEP GOD IN YOUR LIVES AND HE WILL DIRECT YOUR PATH.

YOU TWO ARE SUCH A LOVELY PAIR.

-PATRICIA SINKLER

congratulations!

--veronica B

Congratulations you two! I absolutely voted for you as my favorite couple. I see so much love there. Just continue to keep God first in your marriage and you absolutely won't go wrong. And Kendra, what do you mean next to your family, he's the most valued person in your life? Girl, he is your first family now!!! lol Enjoy your lives together as one...

Vicky Hall

hall_vicky1958@yahoo.com

-Vicky

Always communicate!

Kiss or hug your spouse at least once a day. There is no limit as to how many times you should but at least once a day.

-Michelle -Missouri City,Tx.

Congratulations! You were my choice!!

-Lynette Black, Omaha, NE

You 2 make a beautiful couple, i would like to congratulate you on winning you are very deserving of this. May your life together be filled with joy, love and happiness as you become one in the sight of God. Bless you both and may your lives together be filled with many blessings.

-Charlene Lawrence

CONGRATULATIONS! It seems that you both are very happy. My marriage has lasted 23 years and we are still happy. I am not saying that all this time we've been happy but we are still happy with each other. Why? (1) Because you must keep God first in both of your lives, (2) you must keep the excitement that you have now forever (3) keep an open line of communication in all things, the good as well as the bad, (4) do not keep secrets, hoping that circumstances or situations will disappear, or assume what the other may think or say when there is a problem (5) remember to always love and forgive one another in spite of. Experience is the best teacher, that why I can offer these suggestions.

-Loretta, Houston, Texas

That was the most beautiful propsal ever! you make me believe in true love. May god bless you forever and always!

-Chantel

No matter how many times I watch your proposal, I'll cry... it's so real...The two of you appear to be such a wonderful couple. When I look at the two of you in the video, you remind me so much of my husband and myself. May God continue to bless the two of you....Congrats

-Mrs. Sunshine Mc Cain ~SC

Hello Eugene & Kendra,

Always remember that it takes THREE for a successful marriage, always keep the the LORD JESUS CHRIST at the head. As for me and my house we will serve the Lord. I pray God's peace, grace and mercy over your union and the covering with the blood of Jesus.

"Continue to strive for the highest",

Marcellus T. and Linda H. Pitts

PS......I am a 79 graduate of SC State and the Marching "101".

Marcellus

-Marcellus T. Pitts

Eugene and Kendra,

First of all let me start by saying congratulations, and best wishes to both of you. May you have many years of happiness, love, committment, and pure pleasure. Keep the lines of communication OPEN, most definitely. When you find that special someone you will know, and that is what you both have. Enjoy your new life together and love each other unconditionally!!

May God bless and keep you as you begin your lives together as husband and wife.

-Brenda Jones

Eugene seems so sincere and in love. Kendra you appear to be a woman full of joy and you have a beautiful smile. I wish you both the best and encourage you to staned with God first and foremost and all else will work out.

-Andrea

To Eugene & Kendra,

Congratulations. I am from London, so could not get to see the show when it was broadcast on TV. I am so happy for you both, that in each other you have found Joy, friendship, commitment and Love. God is Love, and the love you have for one another is proof of his Love. May God continue to bless you, as you go through this time of preparation for your Wedding.

-Brenda - London

I will keep you in my prayers that your marriage will last for years to come and nothing but good things come to both of you.

-Ms Mary

Eugene & Kendra -Please allow God to be the HEAD of Everything in your lives as husband and wife and he will supply your every need. Welcome him into your heart/homes/lives as husband and wife and blessings unseen will overtake both of you.Whom God has put together allow no man/woman to seperate.The Bible says a man who findeth a wife findeth a good thing. God has shown you both his favor so go now and enjoy life as one.Congratulations and be blessed.

-Kim Andrews

OOH I JUST LOVE IT, IT MAKES ME HAPPY TO BE ABLE TO WITNESS HAPPINESS,CONGRADULATIONS TO YOU BOTH AND CONTINUED HAPPINESS.

-BRENDA BENJAMIN

congratulations to the both of you and may god bless you.always through the good and bad always talk to one another no matter.and always listen.

-shacondra mcbride

Wow, I wish the best for you two as you embark upon this voyage called marriage. Just remember to always be patient, and loving towards one another. Always come to compromises that have both of your interests in mind, and never go to bed angry because that is the way you will wake up.

-Kristy, Brooklyn

Hello, I see that you two are a beutiful couple and I wish you the best. Remember to Keep God close and you can't go wrong.

-Crystal

Wow!

-Shirley Price

EUGENE&KENDRA LET GOD BE FIRST IN YOUR LIFE AND ASK HIM FOR ANSWERS TO ALL YOUR NEEDS. MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU.

-LES OF TEXAS

That was beautiful, you deserve the best!

-Rayonne

Eugene and Kendra, May God Bless your union and and give you EVERLASTING love. I am not married, however, I do know the key to a great friend/ relationship is COMMUNICATION-keep the lines of communication opened between you and your mate. God Bless you.

-Elissa

May God bless you and the family to come.

-Donna Sloan

You two are the cutest couple. May your union be blessed!

-Mrs. Holliday

May God bless you and yours. I am praying to God for something so real....

-Bridgett

The Bible says the man that finds the wife finds a good thing. I wish you guys love, peace happiness and joy. Just remember to keep God first in all that you do together. And please remember nobody said the road would be easy but as long as you go down it together you can make it. Communication...Good to keep a must have..May God bless you in your marriage and guide you with every step.

Take care

La'Chantel Phillips

Fort Worth Tx

-La'Chantel Phillips

Dear Eugene and Kendra,

This is absolutely beautiful. if I could do it again I would truly mimic your ways:-). Keep GOD first, family last and whatever you do COMMUNICATE, COMMUNICATE and COMMUNICATE.

God Bless

Your sister in Christ

-Demetria

Congratulations! I wish you both a life of love and happiness. May the Lord continue to bless your union!!

-Mrs. Richardson

WOW! This is an amagine love story. Just reading this put goose bumps over me. wishing them a happy life together.

-Alice in Waco, Texas

I saw this all the way from Nigeria but I wanted to say that God will bles and provide for you guys. ow that u have found each other, KNOW that nothing will defeat you, NOTHINg can separate you, God is ur glue and he will hold you for all eternity and after. I'm getting married soon too.

-Wole, while in London

when the times get difficult,please remember the reasons why you got married. May the creator continue to bless you both.

-Sadio

Congrats on the win...in life first and foremost and with all the expenses being covered! You two are deserving of it as your proposal touched my heart! God bless you all....

-Vee

You are a stunning couple.May you continue to be blessed in love.

-Dorene Guy

My heart is filled with joy to know that God's love can be entered into two souls to share with one another. Brother and Sister, keep GOD the head of your lives. He is the one that put it together and he is the one that can KEEP it together. No marriage is perfect and trials will come, but when it does, remember this moment. Remember Eugene and Kendra how you expressed your love that has been shared with the world.

I pray for your happiness, prosperity, and longevity in this union.

God Bless!

-Regina, Anniston, AL

May God bless you as you continue to build your life together in love.

-Kymie

May god blessb you both. I hope that the two of you have a wonderful union and to be able to share it with many now and forever. God Bless

-Chantay J.

I wish you both the best of luck. Give GOD the glorly for all the things he has done and will do in your marriage. And he will direct your path . Hold on to each other find a special time to pray together every day. God Bless you!

-Priscilla A Spann-McCoy

Congratulations Eugene & Kendra! May God bless you both and your marriage. You two look good for each other.

-PMJ

Congradulations Eugene * Kendra, I wish u both well in ur new lives to come. May God continue to bless the both of u along the way. I thought that it was so special for her dad to have picked out the engagement ring for his ONLY daughter. That made him feel so good, & he wanted the best for his daughter, I thought that that was very touching. Again Best wishes to u both. Make sure that u put God 1st in all that u do. Much peace, Love & Joy to u.

-Jackie Kennedy Of Bradenton, Fl

if i can offer you only one piece of advice, it would be to keep EVERYONE out of your personal business. I know that it will be hard sometimes and you mayt want to call up a girl friend or parent to tell them of a disagreement that you may be having or have had but REMEMBER when you forgive family and friends do not forget.

best wishes and always keep GOD first

-joyce

I am completely speechless! It is so wonderful to know that true love exists and through the words I can feel that it is real. Good Luck and may God be with this union forever.

-Monica Lanier

Kendra and Eugene,

I am hoping and praying that your union will be blessed! I was very touched by your story and the proposal and it brought tears to my eyes.

Have a Jesus Union and always keep him first and foremost!

God Bless!

Jan

-Jan

Eugene I think that you have chosen a beautiful and intelligent soulmate. I wish you both all the best.

-A. D

Hi Eugene & Kendra,

I would like to say congratulations and wish you both many blessings from God. Seeing and hearing you guys, I feel a closeness to you. I guess one reason is the fact that I can relate to the student loans you both have. :) I get teary eyed when I see you both. Your happiness shared gives hope to all of God's other children praying for true love.

-BK

Wow! I believe this is true love. I am a 31 year old singe female and it is very hard to find the right person. Your love will inspire me to know that is can happen for me also. I wish you both the best of luck.

-Ajah

I sincerely believe that the two of you will meet the criteria for what is known in Buddhism as "many in body, but one in mind." Meaning, please let your hearts and spirit be connected as one. I bless you with NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO.

-Philadelphia, PA

A nice looking match.

-Atl, GA

This is very beautiful I admire the love between the both of you guys enjoy this moment and the ones to come.

-Latoya H.

Congrats to both of you!! I'm happy for you and wish you all of god's blessings for your life together.

This was a lot of fun and thank you for sharing it with us

-Tony from Chicago

I pray that God will bless your marriage and that you will get those student loans paid for ( Ha-Ha).

Seriously, God bless you both and congratulations.

-Cornelia Moore , High-Point N.C

You two are a lovely couple and by just reading your letters, you both will prosper in your marriage. Keep God first and everything will work out just fine. Always cherish each other and remember, its the simple things that mean the most.

-Nickie Sanders

How lovely!

-Temiika Gipson

good luck. God bless your marriage.

-chris smith

May the spirit and peace of God, and the love of His son Jesus be within you all throughout eternity.

-lil

May your union be blessed with love, light, patience, kindess, sweetness and forgiveness. May you remember to pray together through all of your joys and sorrows, be fruitful and multiply. God bless you and yours throughout your lives together.

-Lindi

This is wonderful! I'm so happy for you two. God Bless your union.

-Portland

kendra and eugene may god bless your lives together and take the time to compliment each other everyday,never go to bed angry. and kendra remember to be a lady in the daytime and a you know what at night.

-jennifer in florida

May you always have as much LOVE as you do right now...

Many Blessings to you and you families!!

-Ruth

Congrats!! You have inspired me and my friend Turtle to work harder in our committed realtionships. We know that many relationships can be developed from a professional atmosphere. Good luck and I wish you the best in the future!!!

-Mia Harris

Cograts to you guys and Put GOD FIRST in everything you do.

GOD BLESS

Michelle Hall

TEXAS

-Michelle Hall

Congratulations Eugene & Kendra,

I wish you the best of the best life together. I had chosen you for the winner in the beginning of the contest. I am so happy for you two. Enjoy your lives for all that life has to offer. Peace

-Brenda T Smith

Educators In Love- You'll be able to teach and preach and instruct one another. Two people with some of the same likes. Two people that doesn't mind reaching out to others and helping others on this path called, "Life."

I am an Author here in the Dallasarea, and I would love for you to take my course, "Till Death Do Us Part." You can log on to my website: www.sassybird.com and view the book. This is not ordinary course. I know that you will be blessed by it. You can reach me at 214-766-1849 or via my email address: birdjohnson@hotmail.com

Continue to love, honor and respect each other, and be there until the end when the last breath leaves your body, that is the epitome of love itself, "Till Death Do Us Part"

Be Wonderfully Blessed!

-S

Congrads, and stay sincere and caring toward each other. Marriage is not a casual relationship, it is the most important relationship in this life. Keep God first always, then your marriage. Let it be a bond that Gods holds together for you. Keep him first, always consult him together and let him order your steps. Eugene you have found your Good Thing, treat her likewise. Kendra love him, be understanding, and care for him tenderly, the rest will fall in place. You Guys have been blessed to have a good beginning, I pray that the middle and the last will be even more successful. Be blessed and remember to thank God and love him with you whole heart, soul and mind, and he will continue to bless you and your union together....I don't know you personally but I believe the sky is the limit!!!!!

Be blessed!

Janie - Houston, Texas

-janie

GOOD JOB THATS GREAT LOVE AND HAPPY YEARS 2 COME

-FEFE

I voted for you all about six or seven times because I felt you all deserved to win. Kendra reminded so much of someone I knew. I thought Eugene's proposal was so sincere. I said yes to the proposal that's how good it was. Keep God first. Good Luck and Best Wishes!!

-B. Williams, Itta Bena, MS

That was so special, I hope that I will find someone who shows me that kind of love, passion, understanding.Kendra you have found a prince. Keep him close. There aren"t many good man out there like him. Eugene, you have found a queen, cherish her and Love her unconditionally. May GOD keep your LOVE strong. This is the beginning of the rest of your lives.

-Dawn.....Philly

Hey Guys,

I am so happy for you. I wish you the best in your marriage!

-Anonymous

Congratulations and continued success for years to come!

-Claudette Armbrister

Miami, Florida

-Claudette

Congratulations to you both. May God bless your union and your life together

-Theadra

much love and continued happiness to both of you. eugene may you always have the desire to sweep kendra off her feet as you now. I pray my soul mate will be here soon :)

-pamela

ENJOY, ENJOY, ENJOY,

First comes the wedding, then comes the marriage, that is when the hard work begins.

But with God as the centerpiece of your marrige I know that you two will make it.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

-Carol from Beautiful Barbados

Eugene and Kendra

I hope you have a fantastic life together.

I look forward to seeing the wedding photos and hope that my life will be as magnificent as yours is right now.

Congratulations.

-Normadee (United Kingdom)

Congratulations Kendra and Eugene! Wishing all a beautiful life together. God Bless you!

-Sescia from the UK!

Congratulations to a beautiful couple. May God bless your union. Keep God inthe center of your relationship; He will be the guiding force beneath it.

PCL (Chicago)

-Anonymous

CONGRATULATIONS EUGENE& KENDRA! MAY GOD BLESS THE BOTH OF YOU ABUNDANTLY.

-A JENKINS

KEEP GOD FIRST...

COMMUNICATE OPENLY

NEVER GO TO BED MAD

DO LOTS OF FUN THINGS TOGETHER

-ETHEL...NEVADA

I am so happy for the two of you and I pray all goes the Way GOD says for it to go in his will. May your love and comittment endure for the length of your lives. Go Georgia!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Blessings!

-Nickie Thomas

Here's wishing a mighty "Congratulations" to you, Kenya and Eugene. May God bestow his blessings on your union for all eternity. Always remember that communication is the key to working things out and never go to bed angry. It makes for a miserable "next morning". I love the proposal letter from you, Eugene; as well as the response from you, Kenya. I had tears reading both. Again, I wish you both the best. Having a great marriage is wonderful, but being married to your best friend and soul mate isjust blissful. Take care and may your union be richly blessed with quite a few offspring as well. Enjoy the wedding and the honeymoon and always put God first in your lives. For without Him, you will not prosper.

-Starlett Denise Barbre, Baton Rouge, LA

I want to say congragulations to you...May you keep and seek God first in everything that you do. Keep everyone out of your marriage including family...I will be praying for you that God continues to show his blessings in your lives and that you will bea blessing and an example to the world that marriage does work....

-LiLi

Eugene and Kendra may God bless you on your future. Always remember to never put any before him, he is your best friend turn to him first. You have each other and you will always learn something new from each other.

You are a beautiful couple and neverever go to bed angry. Always talk it out, it will always work.

-Natasha

Congratulations to you both!!!

Marriage is taken not one day at a time, but a week at a time.

-Ver Lana McCombs/Jacksonville, FL

CONGRATULATIONS EUGENE & KENDRA!!!!

YOU ARE THE CONSUMMATE COUPLE. MAY ALL OF YOUR ENDEAVORS BESTOW BLESSINGS UPON YOU BOTH.

PEARLS OF WISDOM, LLC

WEDDING & EVENT MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

WEB: www.WISEOYSTERS.COM

E-MAIL: WISEOYSTERS @YAHOO.COM

WE WOULD BE HONOURED TO ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR PLANNING NEEDS.

-PEARLS OF WISDOM, LLC

May God continue to smile on your union.

-Teresa Wilson (N. Carolina)

Although I don't know either of you, it's obvious to me you two were meant for each other. May the best of everything be yours.

-Tammy from VA

congratulation to the both of you, may the love you share continue to blossom, may you both keep god first in your marriage, may he continue bless and keep you both, what God has join together let no man put us under, BE BLESS!

-GAIL SCOTT

To the happy couple,I could feel the connection between both of you when I chose you as my winner, let the love continue too grow into this world of respect, long suffering and hope for a better marriage.

-Janice Swanson

keep god first in your marriage

compromise

never go to bed mad

say i love you

compliment each other

communicate

keep family out of your business

be strong for each other no matter what

laugh alot

do things together

-livia and ronald houser -illinois

Keep God First and Everything else will follow be blessed in your marriage

-L.Coleman

God's Spirit and presence will always be with you.

-cheryl white

Hi Eugene and Kendra,

Congratulations!!! I enjoyed the proposal, you guys represent the authentic African American couple. I like the realness and the honesty about the student loans--I can totally relate. I could truly feel the love you two have for each other. Thanks Eugene for being that brother who was willing to let the world know you are in love. AWESOME!

I am not married, currently trying to finish up my doctorate. Your story gives me hope that I will meet that special someone. Always keep God as your foundation!

-Pinky

Congratulations Kendra and Eugene... May blessings and best wishes to you both.

-BlkSwirl

Well wishes and may you be Blessed.

-Shirley

Greetings from Grand Prairie, Texas

Best wishes and congratulations on your engagement. You are truly each others endless love. I pray that you have endless years of happiness.

Many Blessings

-Adrienne E. Harrison

Hello and congradulations on being chosen as the 2008 winners of this brilliant contest. May God richly bless and keep the both of you as you embark upon a journey of a lifetime. You are about to experience life as it was meant to be. Put God first, and allow the God to navigate your pathway in all that you say and do. Be encouraged and remember, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Be blessed in the Lord always.

In His Kingdom Service,

Evangelist Deneen N. Rivers

-Deneen N. Rivers

Eugene and Kendra,

You seem to be a great couple. My wish for you is that you make God first in your lives and in your marriage. After that, everything you deserve will be given unto you. I wish you healthy and happy children and a life together that will last past all language. Good luck, God bless. and congratulaitons!

-Roz Wade, Springfield, IL

May God forever bless and keep you,

Eugene & Kendra

.keep your comunication open never stop talking to each other [ not others]

Never put any one before the other .ask God for wisdom ,you will succeed

-zenobia johnson

the proposal was genuine, as well as the response.........kendra's comment about the student loans REAL!!!!!

Best Wishes!!!

S. Brown

-Sharon

congratulation on your engagement

-..sharon lynch

This was beautiful, Congratulations and continue success. Keep praying and trusting in GOD. Remember a family that prays together stays together. You are truly bless to have each other.

Peace & Blessings always

-KEJ from New Jersey

Wonderful! Congratulations!!

-Anonymous

Congratulations

-csummers

I wish you two all the best that life has to offer. Keep God 1st & you'll succeed in all that you do!

-CGH

Congratulations and I pray many more blessings to come in your future together.

-Desiree

God RICHLY Bless the Two of you as you become One!!

-Fran

Congratulation guys. I wish you all that life has to offer. Remember keep God first and everything will fall into place. Always remember the reason you both fell in love with each other.

Stephne

-Anonymous

Congratulations - Must be the Dance Instructor that gave you good luck!!

Love Ya

Joey & Vicki (Smith) King & Cameron & Morgan

-Joey & Vicki King & Cameron & Morgan

Congratulations and God Bless...

I will be walking down the aisle next year in April...

-Wanda

Mr & Mrs Glover, may the blessing of the lord be with you always! Congratulations! You are a beautiful couple as were all of the contestants. Be sure to share with us the day when welcome your little angels.......

Peace be with you!

-E. L. Cousin

Congratulations Kendra and Eugene!

I looked at all of the couples on Essence website and I am so happy that you two won. I have been married for almost 9 years to a wonderful, generous, unselfish man. I've learned during the past 5 years of my marriageto have patience and to listen to him always. Here a few tips that have blessed our marriage; keeps Christ first, out love one another (its fun), put each other before everyone, love until it hurts and it will sometimes, when one is tired the other mustbrave the storm for the two of you (Chad has done most of that:)), and keep the faith that God has you were you are suppose to be!

We started our marriage in counseling and it has saved us from almost letting go of the best (thang) that has happened to us...each other.

God Bless you on the most important journey of your lives.

-Janine

I am so happy that you won!! Congrats and blessings to you both!! May your life together be filled with lots of joy and happiness!!

-B Mitchell

WOW

-VA Fields

My aunt Bessie Dowling sent me an invitation to vote for you and I am glad I did. Your story is beautiful. Congratulations!

-Sheryl

Congratulations and God's blessings on your wedding and future together as husband/wife.

-Gerri

Congratulations!!!!!! I made sure that I voted everyday and so did some of my girlfriends. As a fellow educator, I know that you both deserve it!!!!! Take care and I look forward to seeing the pictures of the nuptials.

-Rennette B.

congradulations and may you have a long blessed married life together and remember keep God first and you will be just fine l

-DIANNE ROWE

Congratulations, I am very happy you won!!! I voted for you!!! God's blessings!!

-Ari

May God Bless You both in your relationship!! Always remember to be best friends first and respect each other. And don't let other people's opinions effect your marriage.

God Bless!

-Angela

Congradulations, to both of you and I wish you all the best!

-Sharon Young

I am so happy for the both of you. I was praying that you would win.

-AF

HOW DID YOU GUYS WHEN HIS PROPOSAL WAS NOT CUTE AT ALL........

I LIKE THE OTHER ONES BETTER EVERY BODY DESERVES A WEDDING FROM ESSENCE.........

-RONNIE LEMON FORM THE PUBLIC DEFENDERS O

My God continue to Bless your future lives together. Always rememeber to put God first in everything you guys do and it will be bless. A family that prays together stays to together.

The Chappell Family

Bethel A.M.E. Church

Bloomfied, CT

p.s. Your auntie Gloria Samuels had her enire church family voting for you guys.

-Mrs. Valerie Chappell

MAY GOD BLESS YOU GUY MARRIAGE THAT IT WILL GROW STONGERALWAY WITH LOVE.

-LAVITA

Kendra, I love how you explained he was unselfish and irreplaceable, I need to use this in my letter to my fiance, I'm glad to see that God does put people together for the good. keep the lines of communication a key point in your lives, and always keepthe Father the head of your new lives together. Congratulations....

-paula

Kendra and Eugene, We, at William J. Clark Middle School, Orangeburg, SC have followed your story closely! We are so proud of you! Congratulations! You deserve the best and you desrve to win the wedding of a lifetime! Never go to bed angry and alwayskeep God foremost in your marriage and your lives!

-H. Bernice Williams, Computer Teacher

Hi T.J. Congrats on your impending wedding. Tell Kendra that she has a wonderful man. Love you both. KEep the lines of communication open and you go far. Love ya you cousin Vette

-Cynthia Reynolds (VETTE)

You both are such an inspiration, Thank you for sharing your love with us all. May God continue to Bless your union.

-Rev. Davanna Renee

Help him to be a great man of God! Always see the good in him, compliment him always, encourage him continually and always laugh at his jokes even if it's not funny.

Best wishes,

-The gemini Lady

Help him to be a great man of God! Always see the good in him, compliment him always, encourage him continually and always laugh at his jokes even if it's not funny.

Best wishes,

-The gemini Lady

Kendra & Eugene - YOU WON! Wow! Now, you not only have your closest friends and family as witnesses to the covenant and unbreakable spiritual bond of marriage, you have half the country and witnesses as well. Whew! Soon, you will be parting from thebonds of your families and will be joining yourselves together with God as one unit that will always come before the long times bonds formed within your families and with your parents. A very very big deal and not one to be taken lightly. God RICHLY bless you as he teaches you through the covenant of marriage; and may the lessons of FORGIVENESS, and the fruits of the spirit be more and more abundant and ultimately passed from generation to generation through your living example. The world will be watching.

Dana - Colorado

-Dana

I just want to say to keep God first in your marriage and to continue to be friends, everything else will fall into place. Congratulations

-Ashley

Congratulation two you both. I voted as many time for you two to win and I wish you both many and many years of happiness.

-Ms. Rhodes

wish you all the hapiness you deserve and the love you cherish. may god be your help.

-stella

I'm very happy for you both. Congratulations and sincerely much happiness to you!!!!!

-Monica B.,

May the Blessings of God bestow Holy and Devine favor upon your lives... remember to stay friends, continue to date even as husband & wife. Keeping the lines of communication open at all times. Never go to bed mad at your spouse and just remember to always keep God 1st in your lives giving him Honor and the Glory. "Those who sow in tears will reap in joy "(Psalm 126:5).

-Marilyn from Shelby, NC

Congratulations on your marriage!! Keep God first in your relationship and you can weather any storm. Love each other and remember to treat each other how you want to be treated!!!!!!!

-April, VA

Congratulations on winning the contest! I pray that your marriage will be filled with the love of God!

-Carrie, TX

After looking at all the marriage proposals I must say yours was the most touching. Marriage isn't allows easy, but with God in the center of your relationship he can bridge any trouble in the storms. May God bless the both of you, and always remember the LOVE that brought you all together from the beginning.

-Nikia, New Jersey

Congratulations to the both of you!! Wishing you many blessings to your future as husband and wife.

-GS

congradulation may your marriage be all that you both desire stay true to each other god bless

-JaVonna

EUGENE & KENDRA, FIRST OF ALL I WOULD LIKE TO SAY CONGRADULATIONS. I REALLY DO BELIEVE IN FAIRY TALES NOW. OH MY GOD, GIVE ME A MINUTE TO GET MY SELF TOGETHER(TEARS WONT STOP FLOWING). YOU GUYS ARE WHAT I HOPE FOR WHEN THE DAY COMES FOR ME TO REMARRY. I COULD FEEL THE LOVE THAT YOU'LL HAVE FOR ONE ANOTHER. I FEEL THAT AS LONG AS YOU & EUGENE KEEP GOD AHEAD OF YOU'LL NEW BEGINNING. YOU GUYS WILL BE TOGETHER UNTIL DEATH DO YOU'LL APART. MAY GOD BLESS YOU & EUGENE.

-SHERRI JOHNSON

Congratulations!! I am so happy you won the contest, but most of all I am happy that you(Kendra) agreed.

May God bless you and your union.Congratulations!

-Misozi from MI

I am so happy to hear that you were the winners. I read and watched your story and voted for you several times. As a Social Worker I felt a connection with your story and encouraged all of my friends to vote for you. I wish you good luck and may God bless your union.

-Cicely

Eugene and Kendra, I was very happy to learn that you two won the prize. Your story and proposal was so genuine and touching you really deserved it. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 8yrs this year . There has been some rough times, but with the help of God, and true love, we are still happy and love each other more today than 8yrs ago. I feel that you guys have what it takes to have a great marriage and make each other happy. So I pray of many years of happiness for you , have a great life together.

-Danielle, AL.

Dear Eugenge and Kendra,

I'm deeply touched by your relationship, what I know of it, and the sincere love shared between you. I wish you the best in your new life together. I pray that God will be the third member of your union.

Always,

A Fellow Educator (NYC)

-Theresa

I am so happy for you two and i pray your union will last forever.

Put God first in all you do, he is the source of your being.

God bless you as you prepare for the wedding.

-Sade

Congrats to the both of you all ! What a beautiful way to represent the educators out here in the US.

-~Kharima~

May God BLESS YOU BOTH

-MR.&MRS.CALVIN SHORT

Hello Kendra I saw Your Post on the 5th Quarter and I came and voted and told all my friends to do the same. I am so Happy that You have found the love of Your Life. May God Keep You in Bless you in All the Many years to come.

Your Sister in Music

Tau Beta Sigma

Theta Chi Chapter

Stillman

Fall '00

-Reyonna

Yes!!!!!!!!! I am so happy for the both of you. I am glad you were selected. This has given me hope that one day this will be my story. (1) My name is Kendra as well; and (2) I am an elementary school teacher.

-Kendra-Virginia

Congratulations, Eugene/Kendra, May God shower you with his Blessings.

-Barbara - Indianapolis

Hey congrat's Eugene/Kendra, may the Grace of God continue to shine in your life.

-Teena of Canada

Hey congrats Kendra/Eugene, may the grace of God continue to shine in your new life ahead.

-Teena of Canada

Congratulations!!!! What a beautiful proposal. Be happy together.

-Janet

MAY GOD BLESS YOU IN YOUR WALK TOGETHER IN LIFE

-VICKIE CARVER

CONGRATULATIONS EUGENE AND KENDRA

GOD BLESS YOUR LIVES TOGETHER.

I VOTED FOR YOU GUYS SO MANY TIMES THAT I ALMOST FEEL I KNOW YOU.

HAVE FUN AND BE BLESSED!

-CYNTHIA THOMPSON

that was beautiful. Hope your life together is very fulfiling and properous thru God's will. Congrats to you both.

-Angela

Congradulations to the both of you. I pray God's double portion blessing over you. May he be the source of your life together and the one that you always keep in the forfront of your marraige.

God Bless You

-Youth Pastor Arica Quinn

congratulations to Kendra and eugene. i wish you all the best on your new journey in life.

i hope that you both have a joyful special day.

-Niquitta & Shannon Legree

To the end of language.Wow....Congrats!Be blessed!

-Cortlandt

I am so happy for you! Congratulations and I hope you will let me make your honeymoon special with my bachorlette party gifts at www.teneshagill.pureromance.com (713)493-1267

-Tenesha

Dear kendra and eugene i have just read your proposals and they were great ya'll seem like a very beautyful couple i hope every thing turns out all right for the both of you god bless you and your family and i wish ya'll the best god bless you and be with you and i hope the wedding turns out well witch i know it will god bless you.

-jennifer

Best of Love

-tedra

Congratulations and best wishes to Eugene & Kendra. May God forever bless you and direct you in the paths that you should go. Be happy!!!!! (I am one of Helen's co-workers)

-Emma M. Colter

Congratulations to the both of you. I am so happy that you guys won. May God continue to bless you and your union.

-Mrs. Tolbert

May your lives together be blessed with God's grace and tender mercies. God Bless!

-Keshawna Price

You both are beautiful people, God Bless You both. Advise.......never go to bed angry at each other always talk it out !

Nadyne Timberlake

-Nadyne Timberlake

From one educator to two others in the Atlanta area, CONGRATULATIONS!! You had my vote2. ! My advice to you is to:

1. Keep God first in your lives and home.

2. Put one another's needs before your own. (Then, both of your needs will be met!)

3. Never go to bed angry. Remember these days when you become angry and the many wonderful reasons you fell in love in the first place.

I pray that God will bring me such a love again. God bless you and yours.

-Arnell Pharr

Whatever you do Eugene, don't change what you wrote and how you feel in your letter. Many relationships shift and lead down a road of destruction when the man who should "love his wife as Christ loves the church" changes his mind at the whim of the leastdiscomfort. When she's upset, she should still appear "as beautiful on the inside as the outside." When she's not agreeing with you, pregnant, sick, not cooperating, she should still be considered "as beautiful on the inside as on the outside." Love is a hard, working, trial-embraced path that merges two very different people with lots of baggage to come together. In marriage, couples should sort the baggage(no secrets or surprises), decide what they will keep, what they will throw away and what they will work on together without pushing each other away. Have a long, blessed, prosperous, healthy, working marriage! To God be the glory for the things he has done.

-Elder Gloria Barksdale

I am battling a bad cold but when I logged on and saw that you guys had won I was so elated I forgot about how icky I was feeling....and thats a good thing!!!

Guys....that "glow" you hear people speak of is heavens beams shining down upon each of you and I need my shades on!!!

Your are blessed individually, collectively!!! Now walk that walk and talk that talk 'cause God is real.

Congradulations!!!!!

-Carolyn

Congratulations! I was hoping you two would win! The two of you are suuuuch a beautiful couple! I have tears in my eyes right now!

May the two of you truly share an endless love.....

-Sadie in Minneapolis

Congrats to you both! I'm so happy for you!

I wish you a long, blessed,love-filled, happy and prosperous marriage!

-Darlene Holloman, Atlanta,Ga

Congrats! I wish you both all the best and I pray god will continue to bless the two of you.

-Ashley

Congrats to you both! Even though I don't know either of you, I am so excited for the two of you...I voted for you several times simply because out of all the couples you seemed the most genuine. Good luck & I wish you both a lifetime of love & happiness.

-Raven

YOU GO GIRL!!!!! This is such a sweet union. I am so proud of you. The engagement responses were touching. May God bless the both of you.

-Loretta Jones Brunson

Congratulations to the both of you. I hope this is one of the best days in your life together. I know this was a lot of fun looking at all the guests and watching the proposals that had taken place. May you two live a wonderful life that will bring many wonderful years to come.

Colorado

-Michelle Jaramillo

Congratulations. May the two of you have happiness forever.

-Tillie

Eugene and Kendra.....

" CONGRATULATIONS" !!!!! I knew you guys were going to win, the Love of God shines so brightly within both of you :0) Enjoy the "Gift" and know that there's more to come for the two of you.

"Blessings" ~~~~

-Cynthia

Congratulations, May God continue to bless you.

-Dawn

to Eugene and Kendra i wish you God's blessing always. Put God first and never sweat the small stuff. Pray together, laugh together often, love and live life to the fullest. I pray that you will both have many many blessed days ahead as you start yournew life together. Remember God honors marriage and keep the marriage bed undefiled and what God has joined together let no man tear apart.

-Marilyn Davis

Congratulations Eugene and Kendra. I am so happy for you guys. A distant Shuler cousin originally from Orangeburg. Keep love first in your hearts and always respect each other for many years of happiness. We are proud of you. Best Wishes and God Bless You!!!

-D. Ellis Mungin

Dear Soror Kendra,

It gives me great honor to know such a wonderful person like yourself. I congrulate you on the new beginning of life, becoming a wife. With keeping "God" first your marriage will be never ending. May God bless your marriage.

-Tawanda Tolliver McHenry

May God bless your marriage. Continue to honor him and he will surely honor you.

-Gayle T

Congratulations. You two deserve it.

-Teresa Nicholson

I love to hear about people especially my people with this kind of love for one another.

You guys never forget this letter in fact you each be sure to keep a copy where it will be seen daily.

Also remember to love one another the way that God wants you to and you will be able to stick in there through the good and the bad because they are both sure to come.

God Bless,

Love, Let God Do It.

-Put it in God's Hands

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR WEDDING DAY.

MAY THE LORD BLESS THE BOTH OF YOU ON THIS SPECIAL DAY

GOD BLESS

CHERYL & JAMES W

-CHERYL BONDS

Dear Eugene & Kendra,

Congatulations!!!! I am a young, unmarried and childless 27 year old black female. Sometimes I have a negative mindset when it comes to the subject of love and marriage. Storys like your own keep me inspired, motivated and positive in regards to finding true love. It shows that modern day fairytales and love stories happen everyday! Thank you for being so honest and open about your story/life; you are truely a prime example of what love is supposed to be. Stay blessed and enjoy your wonderful future together!

Sincerely,

Karen McLish

-Karen McLish

Hi guys... congratulations and may God's blessing fall upon your marriage. I wish you all the very best! :-)

-Kim

Congratulations!

May the Lord bless and keep you.

-Karen Walker

Congrats to Eugene and Kendra. I wish you two the best of luck. God's blessings

-Nikki

Dear Kendra and Eugene:

I have been a special needs educator for 24 years and I am glad that the two of you are educators as well. Eugene, your proposal was very heartwarming and special. Even though you sang slighlty off-key (smile)it was very romantic. I am sure that Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross would be proud! Kendra, don't worry about that student loan. The Lord will make a way... He always does!!!

I wish the two of you best wishes, and continued success. May God always protect and bless you.Thank you for all that you do for OUR children.

-Mrs. Kimberly Wyatt-Jackson

KENDRA & EUGENE,

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!! CONGRADS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CELEBRATE 5YRS OF MARRIAGE THIS PASS NOVEMBER AND NO IT HAS NOT BEEN ALL ROSES. HOWEVER, GOD IS OUR SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING WE DEAL WITH TODAY AND FOREVER MORE. VALENTINES DAY WILL NEVER BE THE SAME FOR YOU. NEVER GO TO BED ANGRY AND ALWAYS ADMIT WHEN YOU ARE WRONG, AND MAKEUP. NEVER STOP APPRECIATEING ONE ANOTHER. YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS FOR AN AWSOME FUTURE ANDGODLY LIFE. REMEMBER TO TAKE EVERYTHING TO GOD IN PRAYER, NO MATTER HOW BIG OR SMALL. THERE IS NOTHING TO HARD FOR HIM. WE ARE JUST HIS VESSELS....................GLORY TO GOD!!!

-SYNITA A. HOUSTON, WPB.FLA

EUGENE AND KENDRA CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM SO HAPPY FOR THE TWO OF YOU. EUGENE YOUR PROPOSAL WAS REALLY NICE. I AM A SCHOOL TEACHER ALSO IN JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI. . . I WOULD LOVE TO ATTEND THE WEDDING!!

-KIDADA

KendrA & Eugene,

I wish you all the BEST OF LUCK! You all seem to be a sweet couple. When I saw the article in Essence I said that's Kendra from South Carolina State we did our first year together. I was so excited for you I instantly called my old roommate Nikki . We both voted for you. CONGRATS! I wish you two many years of happiness.

-Joy J - Georgia

Hi Eugene and Kendra,

Congrats to you! I'm so happy you two won the contest. When i saw the proposal video, you guys brought tears to my eyes. I knew it was genuine love when Eugene shed tears in front of your family and friends. Girl, you need to bethankful God brought that prince charming into your life. It's so nice to see how two beautiful people can show us what love is really about. I'm wishing you the best of luck and may God Bless you through this marriage forever.

Sincerely,

Regina

Charlotte, NC

-Regina

Congradulations,

What a beautiful couple you are, your foundation is strong and blessed.

Advice--Always pray

-Cynthia

Congradulations on winning

-Carla

Fellow teacher here to cheer you on. I'm from Gulfport MS so I was kinda on the "Katrina Couple" bandwagon but after seeing, hearing and reading about you guys you seem so genuine. I also feel you on the "student loans/ teachers pay song"!!!! Hope yourdreams come true and you win this thing!!!! Best of luck with all your future plans!!!

-Natasha

CONGRADS EUGENE AND KENDRA I SO HAPPY YOU GUYS WON I VOTE FOR YOU EVERYDAY.

YOU SEEM TO BE THE PERFECT COUPLE. MAY YOUR LIFES ME FILLED WITH LOVE AND HAPPINESS. PUT GOD FIRST

-LAFAYE (IN MACON,GA)

There is only one purpose to life....LOVE. May the two of you expand your love for one another beyond its present limits, and keep expanding it until all limits disappear!!!!

-Phenix Ayers-Gaston

BELOVED EUGENE & KENDRA

GOD IS LOVE. AND I SEE & FELT GODS LOVE FOR EACH OF YOU. SHARED BETWEEN THE TWO OF YOU. AS YOU WALK AND TALK ALONG THE PATH THAT GOD HAS SET FOR YOU TWO. DON'T LET NO WOMAN OR MAN PULL YOU AWAY FROM THE LOVE HE HAS CREATED IN THE BOTH OF YOU TOWARD EACH OTHER. GOD IS LOVE AND YOU HAVE HIS BLESSINGS OF LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER. STAY BLESSED AND CONGRATULATIONS FOR BECOMING THE WINNERS IN THE ESSENCE CONTEST AND BEEN THE WINNERS IN EACH OTHERS LIFE.

-VENISE M. ROBERTSON

MAY GOD BLESS YOU BOTH! I CAN'T WAIT FOR MY DAY TO COME.

-Shirley Simon (Baltimore, MD)

CONGRATS!!!! CONGRATS!!!! CONGRATS!!!

I AM SO EXCITED THAT YOU GUYS WON! I HAVE TO ADMIT THAT I VOTED FOR YOU AS WELL AS OTHER COUPLES.. YOU GUYS I VOTED MORE FOR, AND YOU WERE MY TOP VOTE. JUST BECAUSE I SAW A LOVE THAT SEEM SO SINCERE, AND SPECIAL.. I AM JUST SO HAPPY FOR YOU GUYS.... I WISH YOU MUCH; PEACE, LOVE, JOY, PATIENCE, GOOD HEALTH, (FOR THE BOTH OF YOU AS WELL AS YOUR FAMILIES, AND FUTURE FAMILY (KIDS) (WINK!! : ) RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER, RESPECT FOR THE LOVE THAT GOD HAS BLESSED YOU BOTH WITH, AND SO MUCH UNDERSTANDING, SO WHEN IF SOMETIMES YOU MAY NOT ALWAYS AGREE ON SOMETHING, THAT THE UNDERSTANDING OF AGREEING TO DISAGREE IS O KAY. AND THAT YOU DISAGREE IN A PEACEFUL AND RESPECTFUL MANNER.. I AM ROOTING FOR YOU, BOTH.. I THANK YOU GUYS FOR SHOWING THE WORLD THAT REAL, TRUE LOVE EXIST. THE BLACK FAMILY HAS ALWAYS BEEN A STRONG SOURCE OF STRENGTH. SO I ASK THAT YOU BOTH CONTINUE TO KEEP GOD FIRST AND CONTINUE TO SHOW THE WORLD (WHICH IS IN MAJOR NEED OF LOVE) WHAT

-T.FIELDS

That was beautiful, I wish you both all the best

-Anonymous

Congrads! Best Wishes with the highest aspirations!

-Lawrence (Larry) Atchison ,P.E. - B'ham