There are a few people I've come across in life who have an energy about them, a light that instantly brightens anyone's day who they talk to. Andrea Graven was one of those people. I always read in obituaries or hear people talk just about how great their sibling or friend or parent was - no one is ever selfish, mean, or bitter when remembered in death - I've always had a tough time accepting things said in remembrance as being totally true. Andrea, however, is without a doubt one of most sincere, happiest, and down right nicest people I've ever known.
Yesterday I sat at the service for my grandfathers funeral - sad as it was, I knew that he had lived a great and long life - and he would take pride in all that his children and grandchildren have accomplished and will go on to do. Andrea passed away two days after her 20th birthday. I will never forgot how a few minutes talking with her could turn a miserable day around. I hope that some of her light has rubbed off on me and I can honor her memory by being as good to my friends as she was to everyone who knew her.
Andrea Graven. January 14 1990 - January 16 2010.
