Oh Salem...girl. God gave me three sisters and for some reason thought that wasn't enough and gave me 3 more by way of you, Helen and Lula. You drove me CRAZY! Lol There is no one in this world that I've fought or laughed with more than you. I remember Crystal asked me to watch her car while her and Chia went away, but you and I thought that meant we could take it joy riding. We parked it back at my mom's house super proud of ourselves "no one will ever know!". Until Crystal got back and her car was gone LOL...we thought it got stolen and went to the police only to find out we parked it in a no parking zone and it got towed. For years my mom called us "serekti makena" and you'd always holler "MAMA ALEMASH STOOOP!". All the times we'd take off on one another walking through Danehy park in the dark, I always knew where you were cause of that wheezing laugh of yours. We drove your parents crazy just bursting in the house with our loud and obnoxious laughs. I can still hear you singing, every where, allllllll the time.  I'd yell at you to stop and you'd sing even louder until we'd both just start laughing....or fighting. You were such a blessing to experience Salem. I thank God every day for having known you and every beautiful memory we've ever shared together. 

GW Basketball Game — with Ryan Mitchell

Salem's Graduation — with Ryan Mitchell

Salem & her brothers — with Ryan Mitchell and Sam P.K. Collins

I remember exactly where I was the night of her accident. 

I remember what I was doing. 

I remember who I was with. 

I remember the text messsage on that Monday evening that tipped me that something was wrong with her.

I remember hearing the gruesome details of what had befallen upon her on the other end of the phone. 

I remember seeing her on the hospital bed in a state my mind naturally could never imagine of someone so full of life, so full of hope, so full of love. 

I even remember the scent in the room.

That day specifically changed my life forever. The conversation I had with Salem - though she didn't speak verbally - spoke volumes to me. The way her eyes moved to follow my voice, pondering who was speaking with her ... the way she squeezed my hand to confirm she could hear me. 

I made a vow to myself to always be in control of my mind, body and spirit so that I could always show up as me and as the best version of me for those around me. And for me, that meant no more drinking or smoking, so that I can always be present and in that control over myself. But ultimately to honor God in the way Salem and I so deeply desired to. 

Our conversations of faith and obedience in the pursuit of pleasing God is what our friendship was built on. Truly a firm foundation that made it easy for me to relate and exchange hopes and dreams with my girl. She's one of the major influences why I live my life the way I do, having taught me so many lessons, especially in our last conversation. 

I am so grateful to you all, Amanuel family, for gifting me such a wonderful friend, someone who was the perfect representation of God's desire of humanity - and pure heart full of love. I pray God blesses and keeps you all, makes His face to shine upon you, and give you Yerusalem - that is His dwelling place of peace. 🙏🏾💚

Some event in the Marvin Center — with Salem, Sam & Ryan

Salem and Sam at the MSSC

— with Daniel, Salem and Sara

— with Abenet, Salem and Daniel

Salem and Adey out and about

Salem ❤️❤️❤️

Sisters for Life 💕 — with Salem and Manou

Salem, where to even start with the impact she had and continues to have on my life. She was the big sister, role model and one we all looked up to. Salem had this unmatched ability to walk into a room and instantly shine her light. I’ll never forget our days on garage band - Salem always stole the show on the mic. I remember in high school I designed a pair of jeans for her with paint splatters, etc. and because of the influence she had on everyone, I started getting orders left and right. She was the most fun, kind hearted, and brilliant person. Her academic success was inspiring and she set the best example for her sisters (and “adopted” sisters like me), always determined to push the limit higher. Salem’s smile was contagious. She was, and forever will be, the example of how to show up for others, to follow your dreams, all while laughing along the way. I love you always, Salem and the entire family. Thank you for letting me know and love you. I am better because of you.