I’ve spent the last few days trying to collect my thoughts and find the right words to say. I was lucky enough to have met Julia in sixth grade. We always had many classes together in middle school. Julia was always a ray of sunshine. She had the ability to light up any room she walked into. She was very bright and always spoke very intellectually, and that’s why I admired her. She always knew the answers to everything; ironically, that’s how we became friends, I used to always cheat off Julia. They didn’t care, they were always more than happy to help me. Julia was a great teacher to me as well. She never got frustrated with me when I didn’t understand word problems or equations, she was patient. Our friendship progressed throughout the years, and although we were never very close, I cherish those times I did get to spend with them. I remember a random Saturday night in high school, it was Caterina, Julia, and I, aimlessly driving around Arlington. I remember Julia playing the song “1950” by King Princess, it was her favorite song at that time. I had never heard that song before, it was a very slow and mellow type song. When hearing this song for the first time, honestly I didn’t think I would like it, it just wasn’t my vibe. I remember sitting in the passenger seat of the car and turning my head back to look at Julia, only to see her face with a giant smile, screaming the lyrics at the top of her lungs. Just seeing Julia glowing and radiating such a happy energy made me feel happy. It didn’t even matter to me if I liked the song or not, Julia’s smile made me smile, it was contagious. I remember us uncontrollably laughing and almost peeing ourselves in that car because Julia was pretending to act like a “singer in a music video”; glancing out the window with an Arizona iced tea in her right hand acting as a microphone. Julia always made an impression, she was loved by everyone. They were kind, positive, and constantly made people feel welcomed. Julia had such great confidence. They were able to walk up to anyone or anything without a care in the world and simply just have a conversation. I loved that about her, she wasn’t afraid to do anything, it was inspiring. She always wanted to have fun. She had a spontaneous side to her, she was a rebel. She was fearless and brave, yet so calm and collected at the same time. Julia wasn’t like any ordinary person. They always had goals and were driven. Julia loves to question everything in life, and that’s what made them so fascinating, she always had her own original thoughts.
I am so thankful to have had the chance of meeting someone as magnificent as Julia. I will always remember the memories we share and all the laughs you’ve given me. Thank you for sharing your love and wisdom with the people around you. Words cannot express how deeply saddened I am. My heart hurts for her family. Julia will always be in my thoughts and prayers. I’m going to miss you Julia, rest easy love. <3