Sean and I met in eighth grade – Herman Intermediate School, carefully built in the heart of the Blossom Valley suburbs in South San Jose, California. Neither one of us were particularly graced with social skills. I had just entered the public school system after spending most of my student life in private schools.

I saw much of myself in Sean. He kept to himself most of the time and enjoyed the world around him. We were the quiet kids at first impression, always shy around new and 'cooler' people. Usually, when we felt comfortable in our environments, we became obnoxiously rambunctious, completely oblivious to the taunts of those around us.

He dropped out of high school in ninth grade to pursue independent studies. His family life was far from the Cleavers'. Always stressed about life at home, Sean found refuge in just riding bikes, working on a junker car or playing video games. His life was simple and free.

Over many years, Sean and I became best friends.