I am deeply saddened by the newest tragedy in our community. We have lost too many of our children in the recent past.
I did not know Andrew personally, but many of my friends and family did and from what I hear he was a wonderful kid who got into some recent trouble.
All kids go through there stages when they try to show that they are "grown up" and try to make it seen that they are going to make their own decisions. It is getting to the point that these decisions are killing kids.
I just want to say that even though you think it will never happen to you, it does. It will. Every life is fragile and every life is precious. Kids you are loved. You are needed. Be smart. Stay safe. Don't let Andrew's death mean nothing. Let it be a wake up call. Parents should not have to bury kids.
Don't make your family and friends go through what Andrew's family is going through. Even if you think nobody would miss you, they will. Take care of each other. Tell each other you care. Parents, tell your kids you love them, frequently. They may not be listening all the time, but they will hear you. The more you say it, the more it will sink in.
Let's not do this again. My thoughts go out to the families and friends of these young people. They will see no more tomorrows, but please lets make sure the rest of our youth does. We are all important. We are all loved.