Zachary

ZACHARY ~ leader

I first met Zachary when I was 13. 

Zachary as his name, was the leader of every and any pack that was. It came naturally to him, that sort of guardianship and leadership that drew others quite easily. 

I am not exactly sure how I became friends with him but I did, and I have never regretted it.

Zachary showed me that I can be funny and awesome. Zachary showed me that I am subtly interesting. At least, for a short amount of time. He taught me that laughter is really the best way to mask your troubles. He taught me that loud can be silent, and that you'll only realize this if you shift your perspective just right. 

Zachary taught me that people can get hurt just by watching others get hurt. He showed me that sometimes sacrifices are worth it, even if you were forced to do it in the beginning. Zachary showed me that the world is out there, and that you see things way differently if you can push yourself to step outside your comfort zone. He showed me how to go places with my mind, and experience with my heart.

Zachary taught me how to swear, though now I have stopped. He taught me that it's okay to know things even if they are bad. Because it's what you do with the knowledge that makes it good or bad. Zachary sparked my thirst for more. More info, more exposure, more. Without feeling afraid.

Zachary also taught me that time is relative. That things are not necessarily determined, even if you've invested three years into it. That disappointments can make the best teachers. That sometimes you don't even know why, but you let go on your own eventually. And you truly accept the fact that it is for the better, even if you still do wonder 'what if' from time to time, you just know it's better that way.

Zachary taught me a lot of things. But the most important of all is that he helped me see how much room I have to grow into. To expand. To broaden. To reach and fulfil. To be so much more. More than I expected. 

Zachary is a part of who I am today. And this is my tribute to him.

Thank you, Zachary.