Don’t be scared

As a young freshman in college, my thoughts were often filled with second guesses and a dire need to find out who the "real" people were and separate them from those who could care less that you were even in the same room. I found out quickly that, aside from my roommate Johnny, those that cared were few and far between. However, I did come across an individual who cared nothing of why you were in college, the sports that you played, the type of classes you took, or the people you hung around with. This individual cared only for the person you were, what your favorite drink was, and "if you were scared?" This phrase, "Are you scared?" may invoke a lot of interesting thoughts into those that did not know Ben on a personal level. However, to me and to all those that knew him, I mean knew him for the person he was, this meant, "Do you live!" Do you live for the moment or do you prefer sitting back and watching life run right by your face? Do you wait for someone to tell you to have a good time or do you hop in the car and take off to Vegas at 2:00 in the morning? Are you some one who will waste time watching others create memories or do you create memories of your own that others will laugh about and cherish for the rest of their lives? "Are you scared?" "Do you live?" In my book they are synonymous. If Ben has taught me anything in the 5 short years I knew him, it is this; Live life! Don't ride on other people's memories, make your own. Anyone can be a friend. Be the "glue" that brings different groups of people together and create friendships The song "One More Time" can be played 24hrs straight and still have a symbolic meaning on the 24th hour Money is useless compared to friendship. Buy someone a drink without expecting one in return. Tacky, repetitive sayings are only annoying to those who lose their sense of the original meaning. I hope this letter has given those that read it some insight to an individual who doesn't just touch lives, he tattoos them. Rest In Peace Ben. You will always be my in my thoughts. Most Sincerely, J.R. Maupin (This email,was written and submitted by J.R. Maupin on Wednesday, June 23, 2004)