I remember it like it was just yesterday. I remember watching the news, seeing horrific images of parents and children weeping. December 14, 2012, was a tragic day in history. It was just a regular school day for the kids of Sandy Hook Elementary School. The students didn’t know that their lives were going to changed drastically. They just thought they were going to go to school to learn.

It was early in the school day when the shooting occurred. One of the teacher’s son, Adam Lanza, came to the school and shot several students, and faculty. I was a freshman in high school when this happened. I remember I was at school when one of my friends heard that there was a shooting. I couldn’t believe what I heard. How could someone kill people, especially young children?

I remember going home and watching the news coverage. Seeing the images of the parents of the kids that died, made my heart hurt. But, seeing the pictures of the children that lost their life’s, made my heart break. These kids were between the ages of six and seven. Technically, they had all their life ahead of them. Maybe some of them dreamed of growing up and becoming a police officer. Or maybe some of them wanted to grow up and become a singer. The sad thing is that they will never be able to pursue their dream, because one sick man, took their life, and shattered their dreams.

I can’t believe that it has been almost four years since this day happened. Many have forgotten, but I know I will never. That day changed many people’s lives, especially mine. This day taught me to love people unconditionally, because you never know how long you will have with that person. Cherish the moments with your family and friends. Never think that you are indestructible, because you’re not. Life is a beautiful thing, don’t take it for granted.