I met Tavita my freshman year, in Floral Design 101. I thought she was absolutely ravishing, just a year older than me, and she was all curves and curly hair. I so desperately wanted to befriend her, but, seeing as I was the low man on the totem pole that is high school, I was too terrified to even speak to her. However, not even my social handicap could deter Tavita. She befriended everyone who crossed her path; no one could resist her charm, and I was no exception. In no time, we were best friends.
Before I knew it, three years had flown by. Tavita and I had both graduated high school, and we were working as waitresses. We were in that stage between teenager and adult, when anything is possible. The world was ours for the taking, just as soon as we figured out how to go about taking it. Unfortunately, we never did reach a decision. On March 6th, 2012, I saw her for the last time. Tavita lost her life in a tragic accident two days later.
Losing Tavita was one of the hardest things I have ever had to go through. Originally, I wanted to reduce to a pathetic puddle; but, no, I forced myself to endure. It would have been so easy to slip into despair, to submit to the grief, but I knew that would only upset Tavita. Instead, I chose to follow her example, to be compassionate, honest, optimistic, responsible, and loyal. For Tavita, I stay positive in the darkest of times because she taught me that it could be so much worse; I now appreciate every sunny day, every cozy sweater, and even every warm mug of hot chocolate, for her; I am careful to leave no words left unsaid; and I take full advantage of every oppurtunity that I am presented with. I will continue to live my life to the fullest because that is what Tavita would want, and I am determined to make her proud.
Although she was only in my life for a short time, the impression Tavita left will stay with me as long as I live. I will continue to share her enthusiasm for life, and all the struggles that come with it, with the world.
ANY ADVICE WOULD BE APPRECIATED! THANK YOU!
