Recently, four young men from my high school alma mater, Midview passed away unexpectedly. During this difficult time, I could not help but notice the extensive amount of support from my community and how proud I am I can call myself a Midview Middie.

Whether or not people were close to these young men, they are showing respect and giving their condolences to the family.

Everyone from Midview High School is affected by these deaths in some way. A motto we go by is: “Once a Middie, always a Middie.” We are told this when we graduate and instructed to never forget it. When something happens in our community, the entire community comes together and offers a helping hand to one another.

This is similar to the motto we have here: “Once a Falcon, Always a Falcon.” Through the deaths that have occurred here over the past few years, the student body has come together to show love and support for the people who have passed and their families.

It’s comforting to know when you go through a difficult time, there are so many people willing to help just because you go to a certain school or are from a certain community.

It is amazing to see this happen. Even through a seemingly negative time, positives arise from it and I truly believe it is a symbol of hope; hope for the future, families and friends to carry on and remember those who have left this earth in a positive fashion.

They wouldn’t want friends and loved ones to dwell on their death forever. Instead, remember the good times and the experiences you shared. Focus on the person’s happiness when they were alive and celebrate their life.

Remember the person they were and honor them. This is what the people from my community are doing. There are already scholarships in the process of creation in the names of those who have died. Kids are coming together, planning vigils to show their support for those who mourn and celebrating a dear friend’s life. Posts on social networks display admiration for the individuals and make others aware how important each person was in their lives.

Since everybody handles death differently, it is important to be accepting of a person’s emotions and grievances and offer help if they need it.

Personally, each of the death of the four young men affected me in various ways. Some I was closer friends with than others, but still I have felt a sense of mourning within me.

However, my sadness is expelled when I see all my friends gathering to support and honor our fellow Middies and Falcons. It is reassuring to see that even in death, there is happiness and optimism.

Life is too short to take it for granted. We are so fortunate to be alive and we must never forget this. Appreciate those around you while you can because you never know when heaven is going to need another angel.

This column is to show support and give my condolences to the families and friends of those that have died over the past few months. Rest in peace my fellow Middies and friends.

You will never be forgotten and we shall continue to honor your life.

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