Percussion section, Houghton High School circa 2008. It’s nearing the end of band class, last playthrough of a song before the bell rings. Kavi, playing the snare, leans over and whispers to me at the base drum, “Let’s speed it up”. A giggle escapes his lips. Slowly he begins to increase tempo. I follow suit. Soon the trumpets, trombones, and tubas fall in line, beckoning the rest of the band. The band director looks up, wondering why everybody is playing faster. Panic enters her eyes as she realizes she has lost control. She elaborates her directorial movements in a last attempt to slow down the band but it is too late and she surrenders, matching the pace that Kavi sets. Sweat rolls down my aching back as the song nears its galloping end, my arms cannot endure this pace much longer. The final notes ring out and the crescendo is replaced with silence. The bell rings and Kavi smiles as a tired and confused band escapes into the hallway.

So yeah, that middle school dance when every boy was standing in a circle obviously avoiding my gaze, Kavi was so kind as to entertain my request to dance. He was the first boy I ever danced with. Every time I hear “Amazed” by Lonestar, I always think of him. That probably makes him cringe that some awful 90’s song is what consistently prompts a clear memory of his 7th grade self. His exemplary character started young and never waned. I have so many fond memories but this is probably one of my favorite (and his least), and I wouldn’t have it any other way.