I have a friend back in Montreal who is a lot like her, the main difference being that she is Vietnamese. She'd often come to school in costume, and she let nothing stop her, nor anything or anyone deter her. She was having the time of her life. As we say here in Canada, "Why not, eh?"
Although I haven't spoken to this person since 2006 or so, she was a great friend to me, and her advice was instrumental in shaping me into the writer and journalist that I am today. She is one of many people who directly or indirectly influenced and encouraged me. Gave great advice too.
So why is this relevant? Back on the 10th of April, which we'll now call "Downfall of Mad Mark Day," I said some nasty things. On a bit of an evil high at the point, I visited the show's official Facebook fan page to continue my rampage, and the pictures posted from the day's proceedings made me stop dead in my tracks and turn as white as a sheet. This girl looked almost exactly like my friend, someone who I'd held in high regard. Very similar fashion sense, too.
It was then that I'd realized that I'd make one of the biggest mistakes of my life. If my friend were to have seen what I did here, she'd have let me have it, and she'd have been exactly right.
This is one of the main reasons why I've decided to shed my old persona and post as the real me henceforth. Never again will I hurl insults at someone, just because their game fell apart.
Keily, wherever you are, thank you. I am a better person for having known you. Perhaps our paths will cross again someday. Shine on, you crazy diamond.
And to Laura, one person failed on April 10th, and it wasn't you. It was me. Happier times lie ahead. You'll fare better, and that's a guarantee.
_________________ I have berated my last contestant and have nothing else to say. Roll credits. Fade to black. | Dr. Hindsight | April 18, 2006 - December 7, 2023
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