On Saturday, April 2, Smoky Hill senior Asante Ray passed away in a tragic car accident.

This Thursday, the AVID senior class and the Diversity Leadership Team held a balloon ceremony to remember his life. The Buffs had a morning of love and emotion.The Smoky Hill community gathered around the buffalo with royal blue balloons attached to heart notes to send up to our fallen angel.

¨This is to bring people together and to get through it with joy and happiness, a place where if people need to cry they can or if they need to smile and hug,¨ said Arianna Gonzales, a close family friend.

This event was a fitting tribute to an important member of our community. Asante was everyone’s friend/brother, always there when needed most to give wise advice.

Asante had hardships and struggles throughout his life like everyone does, but the way he handled his situation was to make the best of it. He was inspiring and courageous every day he woke up, and always made sure he gave credit to God for it.

Even though we lost a great person in a tragic situation, thousands of lives have been touched by Tay’s passing. Hopefully, the next time we get in a car, we will think about Tay and buckle our seatbelts in remembrance of him.

Overcoming the sadness of someone who passed is never easy but, as Asante always said, ¨Itś not about the hand youŕe given; itś about how you play your cards.¨

Let’s remember those words and remember to take care of each other as we heal.