A Tribute

This is a special tribute to those who lost their lives in a senseless tragedy. A tragedy in which two boys ripped the heart and soul out of countless people nationwide.

I live in a small town, just like Littleton, Colorado. A place where most of the inhabitants here feel safe and secure. We presume to know ourselves well enough to "think" that a tragedy like this would never occur here. Well, we are WRONG! It can occur anywhere, at anytime, by anyone. Even our most dearest friends or neighbors can fall victim, or even be at fault of such a devious crime. Do we really know ourselves? Do we really know our neighbors? No. We don't. How can we, when it is these very people who can take away our greatest treasures in life, in one split second.

I do not have any children. I have questioned myself if I should even have children. Would I be able to trust my childs friends enough to know that they wouldn't be in harms way? How about when he or she got to be a teenager? Would I be able to recognize the signs that our child is in distress and could possibly do harm to others? How would I know? What are the signs? All these questions need to be answered. We cannot have a "TRUE" relationship with our children, if we do not trust eachother.

For The Children
When I was in Junior High and High School, I was picked on by most of the kids that were either, "preps", or the other popular kids. I got called all sorts of names, threw against the walls and lockers, was threatened, and even on one occassion, chased home! I told my mother and the school counselor. They told me to stay away from them, and if they started anything with me, ignore them and tell a teacher.

I took their advice, and just kept walking away from the situation. Now I know to some kids, that's hard to do. Trust me, I know how it feels to be the blunt end of everyone's joke, day after day after day. But you have to remember, you will always have someone there who loves you and who will listen to you. Whether it's a parent, a grandparent, a friend, or a teacher, there will ALWAYS be SOMEONE there for you if you just give them the chance. Just give them the chance. =)

For The Parents
Eventhough I don't have children, I believe that we need to teach our kids self respect and self worth. If we can teach them to know that they are great just the way they are, we might be able to reach them. We should put more emphathsis on the home, and not so much on the school. Meaning, teach them how to love, how to show respect, and how to solve their problems in a fashionable manner.

Do yourselves a favor. If you're going to have guns in the house, please be responsible with them. Lock them up, keep them at another relatives house, that perhaps doesn't have children, or something. Take the extra precautions. Believe me, your child IS worth it! Talk to your kids, show them affection, take a little time out of your busy schedule to tell them you love them. Your kids are the most important gifts you have. Not your house, not your job, but your FAMILY! Family comes before anything! They are your flesh and blood, and forever will be apart of you, your heart, and your soul.

For My Mother
Before I conclude this, I just want to say thank you to my mom. Without her, I wouldn't be the person I am today. I love you very, very much mom! Thank you for loving me, for supporting me, for being my friend, for being there when I needed you, thank you for our talks, the good ones and the bad ones, thank you for showing me the way when I was lost, and most importantly, thank you for being my mother.

To My Darling Jason
I also wish to thank my very very best friend, and boyfriend, Jason. He has taught me to love myself, and that I am truly worthy of love. He has gotten me out of the worst situation I have ever been in, and is so very patient with me! I truly appreciate it, my Love!! You mean the world to me, Sweetheart!! You are the love of my life, and there's nothing in this world that I wouldn't ever do for you! You need only ask! *very big hug and kiss* You are wonderful and perfect in everyway! I love you so very very much!!! Thank you for being you, bringing out the best in me, and showing me a side of life I have never seen!

Conclusion
I want to thank you for taking the time to read my special tribute. Please take the Blue Ribbon found after this passage, and place it on your webpage to honor those who lost their lives at Columbine High School, in Littleton, Colorado.

Once again, thank you and remember, keep the ones
you love close to your heart, always!