Love Beyond Borders: A 10-10 Destiny

Love Beyond Borders: A 10-10 Destiny

October 10, 1998 after the wedding of Tom and Leslie at St. Lukes United Church, Toronto.

By Janet C. Garcia

In a world defined by digital connections, where the boundaries of love are redefined every day, there exists a remarkable love story. It’s a tale of two souls who met online, bridging the chasm of borders, races, backgrounds, and physical attributes to build a love that has endured for more than two decades. This is the heartwarming journey of Elizabeth (Leslie) Copada-Gesell and Thomas  (Tom) Gesell, whose love story defied all odds and blossomed into a lifelong commitment, proving that not everything online is deceitful; sometimes, it leads you to your destiny.

Crossing Borders: A Digital Love Story

Their story began in the vast digital ocean of the internet. Leslie, with Filipino roots living in Ontario, and Illinois-based Tom, were searching for someone they could connect with. Their racial backgrounds couldn’t have been more different, and they were raised in entirely dissimilar environments. Their cultural backgrounds diverged, but fate had other plans for them. What they shared was a common spiritual belief and a shared aspiration to find a life partner with whom they could build a family.

A Leap of Faith: From Hometown to Heart’s Home

Their whirlwind romance took a bold turn when the courageous Tom decided to leave his hometown and start a new chapter in his life with her. He embarked on a journey across borders, leaving behind the familiar to embrace the unknown. It was a testament to the depth of their connection and their unwavering commitment to making their love story a reality.

A Wedding to Remember: Love, Family, and 10-10

Their love story reached its pinnacle in a lovely ceremony in the fall of 1998 in Toronto, witnessed by their loved ones and relatives. The wedding date was no ordinary date; it was October 10, or 10-10. In numerology, this date signifies that you are being encouraged by your guardian angels to make the decisions they know you are capable of. It couldn’t have been a more fitting date for a couple who had already defied the odds and made courageous decisions in the name of love.

Recent family photo taken on July 2023 on Leslie’s 60th birthday with their son Tommy.

The Miracle of Their Love: Tommy’s Arrival

Their love story continued to unfold with the birth of their son, Tommy, a child who mirrored the best of both of his parents’ characteristics and traits. He grew up in a harmonious blend of mixed cultures, embodying the strength of his father and the compassion and care for others that he inherited from his mother. As a martial arts black belt, he carried forward his father’s physical prowess, and as a compassionate and caring individual, he embodied his mother’s constant concern for others.

Teaching Values: Aspiring to Build a Better Society

Guided by their parents’ example, their son completed his university program and aspired to become a valuable member of society. Their commitment to instilling strong values of love, compassion, and determination in their only child bore fruit, as he grew into a responsible and compassionate young adult. Their love had not only survived but had thrived, transcending boundaries and generations.

A Love for the Ages: Celebrating 25th Wedding Anniversary

Despite the myriad challenges that married life often presents, Leslie and Tom are now celebrating their silver wedding anniversary. Their journey has been filled with ups and downs, but their love has always been the North Star guiding them through life’s storms.

A Tale of Fate and Faith: Love Beyond Borders

Their love story is a testament to the power of fate and faith. What started online as a mere connection blossomed into a deep and enduring love. They have proven that love knows no boundaries, that it can transcend geographical distances, racial differences, and cultural divides. Theirs is a love that defied the odds, a love story for the ages, and a reminder that sometimes, the digital world can lead you to the most extraordinary treasures. They are living proof that love can conquer all and that, indeed, 10-10 was a date meant to bring them luck on their incredible journey of love.

Tom and Leslie Gesell (standing) celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with their Ninongs and Ninangs at Asian Legend Restaurant in Scarborough. From left: Au and Bert de Lara; Hermie and Mila Garcia; Mom Imelda Copada; Neftalie and Cesar Abrenica.