His smile was infectious. Some people smile with their entire face and boy did he. It was always so genuine. And don’t even get me started on his laugh. His choppy chuckles always cracked me up. 

Ismael loved to dance. I remember slow dancing with him at prom as we whispered quietly over the music. We later let loose to the fun songs. Seeing him dance so freely that night with the biggest smile on his face is probably my favorite memory of him. He also loved to sing. We were in choir together. I remember one time I had gotten so frustrated with a classmate that I almost started yelling. He calmly sat in the back and when she left he gave me advice and guided me. 

Him and I were there for one another during hard times and good times. We motivated each other and made sure the other person always knew how awesome they were. He had so much love to give. He was one of the most determined people I knew. I got involved in student counsel because of him. His drive helped me graduate with better grades and apply for more scholarships. He helped me word my essays and gave me pointers. Ismael had so much passion in everything he did. He inspired me to be the best version of myself, to make a difference in this world, and to fight for what I believed in. I can honestly say he is my hero. 

I talk to him often. I feel him with me, guiding me. I am not in politics; however, I have promised myself that I will do everything in my power to leave a positive impact on this world for me and for him. The right words to express how thankful I am to have had in my life don’t exist. He gave me so may ideas, taught me lessons, inspired me, and so much more. I will always love him dearly and I will do everything I can to make him proud.