Karen Jean Estilo: A Friend

Today is the 1st of July. I used to text a friend the same date to greet her "Happy Birthday". But that was years ago, before I received a text that we already lost her. 


Her name was Karen Jean Estilo. She's fond of being called KJ, but I prefer calling her Karen or Kams. I met her when I transferred High School here in Taguig due to my difficulty of travelling to and from PUP Sta. Mesa, which greatly affected my health. She's my classmate by then, in the most strange section I ever was, II - Soliman or Section 20. Like Karen, it was my first time to be in the lowest section which really broke my pride and soul. 


But as the days goes by, I was fortunate to realize that what had happened was not bad at all. In fact, I learned a lot of lessons, I gained a lot of lifetime friends and I came to strengthen my dignity by proving that I can be on the top again. Karen was one of the people who made me realize that life ain't over and I should not suppose to give it up. Just like her, we strive to push ourselves in studying and come 4th year, we're both on the 1st section again. 
=)


Karen was known for her smiles and her being optimistic at all times. She was loved and respected as one of the officer of Medics in High School. She used to tease people in a very childish way that you would say, "Si Karen talaga oh!", then blush. She never failed friendships, as her best friends Theresa, Che and Emily, can never say no to her. She was courted by many guys, whom even after the courtship and be rejected would still be considered as her friend. 


It will always be evident that Karen Jean Estilo is a real friend to each and every individual that she meet. The number of people who weep during her wake and burial is a just evidence. Her being a daughter and a sister would always be a moment of happiness for her family. 


As a facebook comment goes: "Karen Jean Estilo, we will always be celebrating your birth... We missed you so much!"