Lucinda Albers

I lost someone very special to me this semester. Her name was Lindy Marie Patrick and she was one of the coolest girls I had ever met. I was immediately amazed by what a free spirit she seemed to possess and the fiery personality she showed to all.

On a whim, Lindy decided to leave the Wednesday before spring break to start vacation early. I never really got to say goodbye to her, as the news was rather short and my day rather full. Of course, I didn’t think much of it. It seems we always take for granted the every-day rituals bestowed upon us until one day we are awakened by with harsh reality. For me, that day was Thursday, the morning after she had left.

I had just returned from classes when a friend of mine came to tell me the tragic news. Lindy had gotten into a car wreck. Everyone knew that Lindy was a bad driver and I figured she would just come back with a great story. Then she continued to tell me that Lindy had died. I stood there waiting for the news to sink in. Before it had actually hit me that my friend was gone, tears sprung to my eyes and I was hugging the girl who had told me.

It’s hard to imagine someone being in your life one moment and gone the next. Walking down the halls, passing her empty room, certain songs on the radio – they all remind me of her. I saw her almost everyday for about 6 months and now I’d never be able to again. Every time I picture her in her track pants and sweatshirt, walking down the hall, it all seems so faded and snowy. Like the end of a television show where it fades before turning black. I’ll always remember her but that’s all that IS left – memories.

I kick myself now, wishing I had gotten to know her better and taken more pictures to remember just how things used to be. I took time for granted, thinking it would always be there and Lindy would always be there. We do the same things in our little group on third floor Waneta; the same people, same activities. But whenever we’re merely watching a movie or eating dinner, there’s always an empty seat, an unheard voice, and a small part in each of us where she will always be.

To any that read this column, don’t ever let the ones you love pass you by. Your friends and family may not always be there but they are here for the moment. So take charge of that moment and make the best of the little things you have. Don’t be afraid to tell someone what you feel because no matter how tough they seem on the outside, they too have a heart, and anything could mean something to them. As an old saying goes: Remember the past, look towards the future, but always live for today.

Lucinda Albers is a freshman journalism major and arts and entertainment editor for the Juice.

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