The Intersection
That intersection would become “hallowed ground” for the couple over the next year. Whenever Herman would go to the playground, Ashbennett would find herself near that intersection to say hello. When Herman finished playing ball, he would cross the intersection and visit Ashbennett on her front stoop. If she wasn’t home, then he would visit with her mother.
He recounted “If I couldn’t get in good with her, then I was going to get in good with her mother!” And that’s exactly what he did.
Far Northeast DC
But all the work Herman had put in was threatened when Ashbennett announced that she was moving from Southwest to far Northeast DC. Even though Washington, DC was only eight square miles, she was worried that he wouldn’t see her again. But Herman reassured her, “As long as you’re not moving from the face of the earth, I will find you. What’s your address?”
Herman went on to graduate from Dunbar High School in 1954. He attended Morgan State University in Baltimore and majored in Physical Education. During that time, they would write to each other. Ashbennett would send him hams and cakes. When he came home, he journeyed to Northeast DC to see her. Their relationship blossomed during those times.
The Ring
During Herman’s third year at Morgan State, he thought about joining the Army. Concerned that the life of a solider would direct his attention elsewhere, Ashbennett wanted to know where she stood in his life. She wanted a sign of his intentions. So he got her a promise ring.
His promise was fulfilled a year later. After Ashbennett graduated from high school, right before Herman’s senior year at Morgan State, they married on August 15, 1959.
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What a beautiful couple and a touching story. I really hope we find a cure for cancer soon. It has taken so many lives.
Thanks Briana.
What a beautiful beautiful story of love, respect and admiration. and the way you told it was just everything, I feel like I know Herman and Ashbennett and I am so sorry for their loss. Thank you for sharing this and please send me a flyer or something so that I can post Zuriworks initiative on my social sites. Peace 🙂
Thanks Stacey. The only marketing collateral I have is ZuriWorks website. They have a youtube video and some copy. I hope that is sufficient. http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/zuriworks-exposures-project-other-faces-of-cancer
Wow, this was such a beautiful story, literally making me tear up. I’m so sorry you lost who sounded like an amazing sister. I will keep her husband and children in prayer. Thank you so much for sharing this with us Heath. We definitely have to continue to fight against all cancer until we no longer have to suffer loss. I will definitely be sure to share.
We definitely do Christine. I appreciate you prayers for my family.
sounds like Scooter and Allison to me. She told me how he took care of her.
This is such an inspirational story! I know that word is overused, but I don’t know how else to describe it! I always say that God has an amazing ability to turn a burden into a blessing, and this is a living example of that! Thank you Heather for sharing the story.
I think your sister would be proud of you for continuing her fight here on earth. Despite the pain, I am glad she experienced such pleasure. I would be truly blessed to find a husband like Herman:) They are an amazing example of true love and til death do us part–although I’m positive she never parted from Herman’s heart!
Thanks Heather. It is important to me that we get the word out about cancer awareness. I’m glad you were encouraged by their story.
With eyes wet, I say thank you for sharing this story and opportunity to help with Cancer Awareness through ZuriWorks
Thank Utokia. They appreciate your support.
What a beautiful story. I am a cancer survivor and was married to someone who chose to abandon as I struggled to get well. I have been afraid to date. This story is amazing, it’s hard to find men who are so selfless and are loving leaders. We need to hear more stories like this one. Thank you for your efforts with this website. God bless.
That sucks Patricia! My heart just breaks to hear your husband left and would not stick by your side when you were fighting for your life. I hope this story gives you some encouragement that there are men of noble character out there. I hope your find love that knows no bounds (if you haven’t already found it). God bless.