An Old Friend

So, I work at my father's orthodontic office. I am a receptionist and perform all the regular receptionist duties. Since I work in a medical type office, we follow the rules of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability And Accountability). We shred records that are 7 years old and or when the patient turns 25, whichever is a longer period of time. Anyways, I am coming across a lot of people my age that went to my dad for braces that I have to shred. Some I remember fondly and some are vague in a cloud of high school acquaintances.
The other day, I came across a dear old friend. A friend that I grew up with. A friend that almost shared a birthday with me. (Her's was a day later than mine) We shared many qualities even though we never were attached at the hip. We were both sensitive, longing for love, silly, sometimes serious, and lost. When we had our moments, they were memorable. I loved her in my own way. I think we had a tender spot for each other throughout the years.
So when I came across her file to shred, I felt a tinge of nostaglia and devotion. (She went to my dad for her orthodontic treatment.) You see, she died at a young age; too young. The circumstances were too random to find a reason for. The fact is that she lived and she was determined and real. I will always remember her as someone I could talk to about anything and she would find a way to relate or understand.
I did not shred her photos. I keep them in a cubby at my desk; and when her face peeks through the insurance forms and office meeting agendas, it makes me happy. To see her as a child and a teenager is always a comfort. I know she would have gone on to do great things...she was motivated that way; fearless.