"Every man dies; not every man really lives." William Ross Wallace

Kristina Keeley passed away today. I wouldn't go so far as to say that we were friends, even acquaintances. I don't believe she would have either. We graduated together, which means we had the same experiences since 8th grade (in my case). She was in band; 3 concerts together a year for 5 years. 15 concerts. I really am sad about not knowing her. I know that the people she was friends with were some really good people, so I'm sure she was too.

From the information I've gotten so far, she was driving and texting and a drunk driver swerved into her lane and hit her car. I am at a loss for words about the sadness that takes over and clouds my thoughts. I guess that's what this thing is for, right? To figure out my thoughts.

As long as we are living, our loss will be mourned and her life will be celebrated. She will never be forgotten and will always be loved.

I think what I will learn from Kristina's life is to love a little more. She was so young. My age. Things like texting accidents or drunk drivers... we never think it will happen to us. It will never be someone we love headlining the newspaper. How are we to respond when one day it is? Since we cannot predict the future or know when someone we love will not be with us, I think the best we can do now is love.

Tell your parents you love them. I know when my mother walks through the door after returning home from work safely, I will hug her and say "I love you". I don't want to regret not saying it when I can't anymore. Even if you see your best friend every day, don't forget to tell him or her as well. Your boyfriend, girlfriend, partner. Sister, brother. Our lives are so intertwined; it is crucial to remember the people who we are.

Every person that knew Kristina has been touched by her life. Her life should inspire us to live ours with love, happiness, and responsibility. I'm serious. Go tell someone that you love them. Live a life like Kristina's, full of companionship and joy.