Tribute to Ivy Dejesus written By Arlene Martinez
Introduction:
In this essay, I would like to pay tribute to my cherished loved one, a friend who left an indelible mark on my life and those around her. While we met during our high school freshman year and had our differences at first, our friendship blossomed into something beautiful. This essay will explore her personality traits, the impact she had on my life, the challenges she faced, her untimely passing, and how I’ve coped with the grief.
Personality Traits:
My loved one was a kind and generous soul, always willing to lend a helping hand. Her outgoing and vivacious nature stood out, even in high school. She had an infectious enthusiasm for life, making her the life of the party wherever she went. Her ability to make others laugh and feel comfortable was one of her most endearing qualities.
Hobbies and Interests:
We shared countless memorable moments, particularly during our getaway trips. She loved adventure and was always up for trying something new. Her love for freestyle music and attending concerts added a unique rhythm to our friendship. Despite our differences, she taught me to appreciate the things that brought her joy, like her fondness for roses, even though I didn’t share the sentiment.
Impact on My Life:
My loved one’s impact on my life was profound. Her friendship was a source of joy, laughter, and support. She taught me the value of authenticity, kindness, and the importance of cherishing every moment. She made me a better person, reminding me to break free from my comfort zone and embrace life’s adventures.
Challenges Faced:
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for her. She struggled with an abusive relationship with a person who struggle with jealousy a challenge she tragically never overcame. It was a part of her life that she wrestled with and one that occasionally affected our friendship.
Untimely Passing:
The circumstances of her passing were devastating. She was a victim of a senseless act of violence and was tragically murdered. The impact on my life and her family’s life was profound, and we continue to grapple with the enormity of this loss.
Coping with Grief:
In coping with the grief, I turned to writing, prayers, and a unique way of keeping her memory alive by texting her as if she were still here. Spending time with her family helped us find solace in our shared grief.
Advice for Others:
For those experiencing a similar loss, my advice is simple: grieve in your own way, on your own terms. Everyone’s journey through grief is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Seek support when needed, but don’t let anyone dictate how you should feel.
Keeping Her Memory Alive:
To keep her memory alive, I constantly reflect on our shared experiences, both the good and the bad. It serves as a reminder of the impact she had on my life.
Changed Perspective:
This experience has profoundly changed my perspective on life and the importance of cherishing every moment. I’ve become more vigilant about the people I surround myself with and more attuned to recognizing signs of distress in others.
Finding Solace:
In the midst of grief, I find solace in freestyle songs and the memories of our shared adventures. Reading her text messages and visiting her social media profiles provide moments of connection and comfort.
Legacy:
In memory of my loved one, I hope to leave a legacy that reminds others there is always a way out of challenging situations, and it’s never too late to seek help, despite pride or ego.
Conclusion:
My beloved friend’s impact on my life is immeasurable, and her passing has left a void that can never be filled. Despite the heartache, I am grateful for the memories we created together and the enduring lessons she taught me about friendship, authenticity, and the importance of seizing life’s precious moments.