Loss...

I am terrified of loss...but it happens. Too often. In high school I never thought about the fact that the people I knew could just die...just like that. But now, after losing my grandpa and three fellow schoolmates, I realize differently. This is kind of a tribute to those I have lost.

Josey Dean Shearer (1987-2006)....man, I always thought you were hilarious...I wish I had gotten to know you better earlier...instead of in the last two years of your life...we had great times in art class and you always loved my work...you are much of the reason I decided to go for it and major in art. The time we drove through the ditch by Rachelle's is a killer memory of you...I can't wait to make more memories when we meet up again (in that pie in the sky).

Elliott Scott Conard (1990-2008)...even though we never went out LOL...we had some good times...I miss seeing your car running around town...your crazy driving! I wish I had gone to one of your races or not gave you so much crap...even though it was all in fun...about the whole Smelliott thing. We had good times rocking out to ICP on the bus and some pretty decent laughs...thanks for giving me advice...my one regret is not being there for you when you needed me most...I wish I had shown how much I truly cared about you!

Amanda Rose Turman (1990-2008)...we used to be such awesome friends in grade school...I don't know what changed...well I guess I do...you were the social butterfly while I went the loner way...but you were amazing cuz you related to everyone at school...if only we had kept up through the years...sure we talked but that friend factor just wasn't there...

Grandpa (1905-2006)...you lived a long life...at times I was scared of your temper so we weren't close...you were old and I was young and thought I had all the time in the world to learn from you and your experiences...thankfully, I didn't stay 'young' forever...I grew up and took interest in your stories...I can't believe all the things you did, all the experiences you had...even though you couldn't hear...I'm glad you could tell a good story. I hope one day to see you again and hear all the stories I missed while I was out having 'fun'.

I know that everything happens for a reason...but I just want everyone to realize they can lose anyone at any time and that time should not be wasted!


-Ashley Marie Kingham-