Sunshine


It's been a year now Andrew. I can't believe I have to live my life without you. When I go into your room I can still smell your cologne and see you sitting in that old ratty chair by the window. I never thought I would be here, putting flowers on you descanso. You were so young. We both were so young, only fifteen. You were like my brother. I'll always remember the good times. I'll keep them here.
One I'll never forget is the day we met. I was sitting in the sandbox and some big kid came and stepped on my castle. Here you come, as tough as you were, and punched the kid right in the stomach. I'll never forget the smile on you face as you held you hand out to me and said, "Come on, Sunshine." From the day on, you always called me sunshine. We did everything together. School, recess, joined clubs, and joined the gang. We were only twelve and everybody was doing it. It was easy and it looked fun.
It was an exciting life. There were parties and you didn't have to care when you got home. It was like there were no rules. After a while it got scary. Friends were dying because of drive bys or some guy at a party with a grudge.
Why couldn't I stop what happened? Why are you gone? Why did you take him away from me God?! I've tried to forget your death so many times but as I see the flowers, the cross, and your picture. It all comes rushing back to me.
We were at a party and I was tired. I told you I was going to walk home, a few blocks, no big deal. You told me you'd come with me. I wasn't in the mood to argue with you that night. Why didn't I argue with you? We started to walk home. It was a perfect nigh, full moon, stars were shining, and it was summer so I took of the sweater I wore. I remember the car as it came down the street. Shots rang out and you fell to the ground. It all happened so fast. I couldn't stop it! It wasn't my fault! I rushed to your side and put my sweatshirt over the wound. I yelled for help but I knew it was useless. I was telling you that you were going to be ok but really it was for me. I was telling my self I wasn't going to loose you that night. I remember your last words to me, Andrew, "Get out of the life while you can, Sunshine." You always used to call me sunshine.