RIP ARQ ✞
Back when I was in university, there was a girl there who I only sort of vaguely knew. She was decently popular and seemingly everyone knew her. She was involved in the university choir, was a children's teacher at the local church, held a position in the student government, helped run her sorority, you name it. Just the kind of person who was a friend to anyone, who would be willing to help you out with whatever you needed. A model citizen. Whenever I would see her around, she would always have a smile. Just overall, a lovely person.
I remember, it was my third year, everyone came back from break and things were getting back into full swing. And then one day... she died. I simply heard the news from a friend of mine. Just like everyone else, I was caught off guard. By the end of the day, the whole school had been informed and I think they cancelled some of the events scheduled for that evening. Now, I didn't personally know her very well, but I was stunned. Those that were close to her were obviously devastated. The school held a memorial and offered services to those who needed them. I went and I prayed for her and her family and friends. But slowly, everyone recovered from the blow and... life went on I suppose. Maybe not for her family and closest friends, but for the rest of the world. (There's something compounding-ly sad about that fact too).
Well, years later, I learned that she took her own life. I hadn't thought about her in years. I never knew and just assumed/hoped that she died some other, peaceful way. I couldn't believe it. She was such a kind-hearted and well loved girl. You wonder how such a terrible thing could happen to someone. Especially to someone who, from the outside, seemed to have everything going for them. But you never know just what's going on in people's lives.
So... all this to say, cherish your time here. Tell the people you love that you love them. Give thanks for what you have. And try to help those around you. Cliches and tropes and all that. But there's nothing more important in life than that.
A terribly sad, but relevant song⤻
Rest in Peace, ARQ ✞
Yours Truly,
[Redacted]