Once upon a Spring, my dear sister Amanda came to O'ahu and we frolicked and played and I ditched many a class. She lived on Po'ohaili Street in Laie with Jasmin Hermida.
Jasmin is Vienna's finest, via the Philippines. She speaks 50 languages, had a hilarious accent- especially when she'd say "ah hell no!", wore sophistaicated foot wear rayon slacks and artistic blouses to school (in Hawaii, where it's humid and everyone dresses in rags and wears slippers). She majored in one of the hardest majors there (ICS) and worked probably about 3 jobs.
I later moved in that house once Amanda moved back home after the Spring. I had the chance to get to know her as she did me. It was nearing our graduation day, and it was then that I realized we probably wouldn't see each other ever again. She had a rental car and dropped me off at school the last day she was here and parting with her mom. We looked at each other and shed a few tears and fewer words and that was it.
Jasmin, my friend, had been through the ringer out there on that island. I remember both of us being so anxious to be done and leave. I remember her strength as she got through her trials and mistakes and she has always been in the forefront as an example-- of facing change, girding up gumption to make the change and to face my mistakes. I really hope she's well. I haven't talked to her in years. I should look her up. Or is she out there in the blog of cyberspace! I know not. Either way, this one's for you, Jasmin. Here's to college friends.
2 comments:
Aww Jasmine. I think about her, too. Remember how she'd crank up the accent for the cute guys?? LOVED THAT. I always wished I had an accent to accentuate around the boys..
YES! I do remember that. And her voicemail greeting. "hallo, yew've reached Jeasmin.... cheeahs, bu bye." Girl got game. Jack talk Tai.
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