She knew I was nervous about doing an interview with her after winning the school pageant title. I felt like I wouldn't seem like a bright student.
Before becoming the school's queen, I had participated in a casual meet-and-greet with the judges, along with the other contestants, so I was at ease during that time. But that's another story.
Whenever she reminded me that we needed to do an interview soon for the school newspaper, she could tell from my awkward demeanor that I was uncomfortable.
So, she decided to compose a questionnaire for me, saying that given our busy schedules, it would be better for me to take it home and answer the questions she had prepared. This way, she said, we could consider it our interview.
Tami was a kind person who embraced everyone and made everybody feel like they mattered. Her smile was captivating, and she had a presence that lit up the school.
She served on the student council and was actively involved in school life. She was highly intelligent, yet she never tried to make others feel inferior.
Over the years, I had been trying to find a way to get in touch with her because of her kindness towards me. I had searched for her on social media, but she wasn't there – at least, not until several months ago. By then, I had stopped looking, having figured that I wouldn't find her online.
Still, I had hoped that someday we would reconnect.
On my birthday, I received devastating news: Tami had passed away.
Tami Abel will always hold a special place in my heart. Her kindness, intelligence, and generosity left a lasting impact on me, and I'll always cherish those memories.