This past weekend I found out an old High School baseball teammate had lost his life at a house party in North Hollywood. I knew his name but I could not picture his face.

Tonight, I met with a few HS friends I had not seen in quite some time and they were passing around a couple of pictures. It hit home as soon as I saw the first pic of Nevil holding a bat in uniform.

He was a rookie on the JV squad when I was a senior on Varsity, and I could remember it as though it was yesterday when I saw a distant arm hurl a ball from the outfield.

It was remembering that intersquad game (JV v. Varsity) that made me think about all the subsequent small-talk I had with Nevil. He was an amazing athlete and one of the most personable individuals I have ever met.

Nevil Vega was one of the many kids I grew up with who provided me with a perspective not many students in American high schools gets to see. And I can honestly say that growing up in this ethnically diverse city has played a pivotal role in the development of my character today.

After attending college in one of the least diverse states, Maine, I realized how much I appreciated my background and how much I owe to my community. Nevil will sorely be missed by many, but his soulful energy and charismatic personality will live on in this culturally rich environment.