Shoreham-Wading River. Residing just over 8,000 people total, our small corner of the world is a place that many of us are proud to call home. Growing up in this community was, in my eyes, truly a blessing. The community is very close knit and you are literally born and raised with the people you attend school with. Although SWR is a wonderful place to live, it is undeniable that our town has suffered more losses than imaginable by most people. From tragedy, to illness, to suicide; all of it has impacted our small community on more accounts than one. Although I am now residing out of state SWR will always have my heart, and with most recent events, I would like to say a few words to my hometown.

It is okay to be sad.

When someone passes away, whether you were close with them or not, it is normal to have feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, etc. You don't have to wear a brave face all the time, it is okay to express your feelings because the people around you truly know what you're going through.

Be there for each other.

In times of loss, our community does a tremendous job in supporting one another. Remember to reach out to others and give your condolences. Let people know that you are there for them to give a listening ear or helping hand. Go the extra mile for someone who might be having an exceptionally hard time.

Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.

If we have learned anything, it is that life can be unpredictable. Never hesitate to tell your friends, family, significant others, etc. how much they really mean to you and how much you love them. Say it everyday, say it whenever you can, never miss an opportunity to tell someone you care about them.

Be an active bystander.

Don't ignore the signs, if you notice something is wrong, say something. Speak up. Just because you're not actively participating in bullying, doesn't mean you're not participating at all. If you see something, no matter how small, say something.

Be nice to one another.

Everyone you meet is fighting a personal battle. Smile at your peers in the hallway, around town, at the grocery store. A smile and a nice "hello" can truly go a long way for some people. It can never hurt to be nice, you never know who you are helping in the process.

Love yourself.

Be happy with who you are. everywhere you go, you touch the life of somebody else. Remember that nothing would be the same without you here. And if you are struggling, seek help in those who care about you. Family, teachers, friends.

Live for the ones we have lost.

Friends, classmates, daughters, sons, siblings, grandchildren, significant others, and all the ones we love who have left us. Live everyday to make them proud, to be a good person in honor of them, and to help their memory and their presence live on within the community. Sometimes the greater plan is kind of hard to understand, and it's not always easy to accept this, but just remember that the ones who have left us would want us to be happy. Live life to the fullest everyday for them.