For The Fallen

When you grow up with someone, they're always there. In the halls at school. At church. On the bus on your way home. But you never think twice. You make casual conversation, thinking there's always going to be a second chance to talk to them. You share a bunch of laughs and many memories. But then suddenly, it all ends. Something happens that is completely unexpected. Your thoughts are filled with "why?" and "what could I have possibly done?" Yesterday we lost a dear friend, Tanner. A beautiful soul with everything going for him. His shining personality masked what was going on inside. It hurts to think that he is gone. All I can see is his smile in my mind, oh man I wish I could see that smile just one more time. I wasn't that close to him but I feel like we all think we will have the chance to become close with people, you know? Like they're always going to be around. Tanner was one of us. He was a falcon, and to me that means a lot. He was a good kid that made everyone feel better on a bad day. He was a great example to us of always being there for our friends, and that's what I am going to remember him for. Today our school dressed up in memory of him. Wow that was such a beautiful sight! To see a bunch of teenage kids, even people who didn't know him, dressing up and honoring him. I am truly honored to be a falcon and to see my beautiful school pulling together after this difficult news. My amazing friends, family, and of course the gospel are what is helping me cope. I am so grateful for the knowledge that I have about life. After all, families are forever. I hope that fact helps the Birch's. Now we can judge all we want on what happened. Rumors are flying and sometimes it's hard to keep cool and not want to punch people in the face. The truth is that ONLY Tanner and our Heavenly Father knows exactly what happened. Tanner, man I know you are up there with angels figuring everything out. I know He gives you peace and that He is giving us peace too. I just hope we all learn from this experience. That we take the lessons with us. Life is worth living. It's worth the fight. NEVER forget that. If you need someone to talk to, there are many who love you. Maybe I'm one of them? Gauranteed I would be there for you if you came and asked for help. Heavenly Father loves you! Never waste a moment with someone you love. Be open. Be kind. Be loving. Stay strong :)