A Letter to the Class of 1999

This weekend, this week for that matter; was the worst one I have ever had in my life. And that is the sentiment I heard over and over - no matter how close each of us was or wasn't with Imette St. Guillen - this weekend, this week; reminded each of us that life is too short, too precious, and all too fragile.

But to the Boston Latin Class of 1999 I say this:

It was good to be comforted by so many of you - whether it was at the Wake, or taking a shot in Imette's memory at Doyle's, crying together in the bathroom when we didn't think anyone would see or holding hands while her mother and sister spoke at the Memorial.

Please remember that life is not measured by material things. No one will remember you for the car you drive, or the degree you received. People will remember you for being genuine, caring, and warm. I felt that from so many of you this weekend. So many faces, stained with tears; mirrored my own. But we stayed strong for each other as long as we could, and when we couldn't bear it any more we held each other closely.

So many of us felt bad about not keeping in touch. It's so sad and unfortunate that only in death we come together. I only hope that we can stay together. It's amazing how close a class we were, and still are. I am here for each and every one of you in any way that I can be in this time of heartache.

Imette will never be too far - she'll be in our hearts and thoughts forever.

Keep in touch, I mean it.....

Imette St. Guillen touched us all - whatever the degree - and no one can take that away.