Goodbye Paris, Hello Elder Thomas

Paris Thomas is a very popular kid at LDS Business College. EVERYONE knows him and no girl can deny that they've had their share of feelings for him at one point or another. I met him when he was 16 and I was 18. It's been about 3 years since then and he has become quite a student, quite a heartbreaker, and quite a good friend to many people. However, I'm proud to say that I am one of the very few lucky people that have been able to know Paris as more than just the studly class clown. He's one of the closest friends I've made being away at school, definitely part of the family I've made for myself here. And honestly, there have been a few times where I've thought I was over-estimating the closeness of our friendship...you see, everyone wants to think they are Paris's best friend...but every time I start to doubt, he does something or says something that reassures me that it's not just all in my head.

I remember having deep talks with him on trax and him telling me that only people he's really close to know the real him. And geez, I was so happy when he said that I was one of those few people. As popular as he got, I was still the one who had to make sure he got home safely (and on time), the one he would ask for help, the one he would talk about spiritual things with. I have so many good memories with him.
I love all the times I would come home to find him sitting on my couch. I love the times I would look up and see him in my kitchen. Whether he was baking a cake, breaking down an attic door, or just sitting in the living room talking- he was always a welcome sight.

I love the times we would just stroll around Walmart talking about God’s love. I’ve always thought that he and I were on the same page about a lot of things. I love the times he called me for romantic advice, and I love the times we would walk around Temple Square at night. I remember driving around the city, or walking around Liberty Park all day long. I remember table-hopping in the Carriage Café and dancing in the commons room. Whether it was holding a duck for ransom, or just eating food and watching movies…I’ve had my share of good times with him.

But in the end, what it has always come down to is his testimony. I’ve always been very impressed with him and his faith after all he's been through in his life. I remember when he was asked if a girl could ever affect him serving a mission, he responded with a very definite “NEVER. I love my God.” Since then, whenever I think of him, those are usually the words that pop into my head. At such a young age he's been an example, a rock for many people’s faith, mine included. He has always been too nice, too forgiving, and too caring about others feelings to the point where he's gotten himself into some trouble. He's definitely taught me about love and kindness and the true meaning or friendship.

Paris is an amazing story. On Mormon.org is a quick profile of how he got to where he is now. At this very moment he is enjoying his first weekend in the MTC as a missionary. Preparing for this mission is what he's been all about for the past year. He got his call to Leeds, England, gave his farewell talk two weeks ago, and is ready to hit the pavement tracting. Now, although I can't imagine a semester at school without him, I am so immensly proud of his decision to serve, and am so proud to be his friend. I think it definitely boosts my reputation when I tell people I've known him since he was 16.

I love this guy and I will miss him quite a lot. Goodbye my dear Paris. Hello Elder Thomas.