Life is a series of moments.  As I mature I am finding that it is imperative to take more time to enjoy and appreciate each moment I am blessed to experience.  One such moment since my break into the field of journalism was having the distinct pleasure of meeting a gentleman I only  knew by name, Dr. Charles Krauthammer.  Henry Luce once said, "I became a journalist to come as close as possible to the heart of the world." ​ In many ways, that is what Dr. Krauthammer did.  He actively participated in the conversations of the world. He spoke his truth and stood by his convictions, and he penned columns that were equally as witty as they were informative. His work caused readers from around the world to think deeper and differently about the topics on which he touched.  Dr. Krauthammer had a strong and very unique voice. The impact that he has had on the journalism industry is unparalleled. He has left behind a body of work that will be honored, treasured and admired for many years to come. Undoubtedly, he is a legend in his field. I've heard a number of people talk about the brilliance of Krauthammer as well as his colorful personality.   Though our encounter at a mutual office gathering was brief, it was moment that I will never forget.  ​I can remember being introduced to him by a colleague. He looked directly into my eyes, extended his hand and greeted me with such kindness. He peppered me with a few questions with a smile on his face and said, "Ariel, it's nice to meet you. Welcome aboard." In that moment, it felt like I had been initiated into something much bigger, not just a job, but welcomed into a community of people who shared the same passion for writing as I.
 
​Dr. Krauthammer's quiet strength, his humility, his kindness and his transparency are what I will remember most. His presence will truly be missed and his name will forever be engraved on my heart. I am grateful to have made his acquaintance.

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I’ve never been super into labels. But there are a few brands that I think help capture my classic, minimalistic albeit sometimes quirky aesthetic: Chanel, Betsey Johnson and Kate Spade. I’m all about clean lines, timeless pieces, good quality, and I hardly ever shy away from color. Spade’s designs speak more to the young woman who’s sophisticated but still flirts with the innocence of her youth. Though I have yet to add a Kate Spade piece to my collection, I understand that girl, because in many ways I am that girl.
I’ll never forget the day I saw the Kate Spade bag I wanted online. It was either the spring or summer of 2015. As I scrolled through my Pinterest, I came across the handbag of my wildest writer’s dream. It was a beautifully stitched aqua satchel in the shape of a…WAIT FOR IT…TYPEWRITER with a round coral keychain that said “You’re Just My Type” in gold lettering. It was too perfect! Alas, as a student at the time, I didn’t have the financial means to make such a steep purchase. It wasn’t until last year that I had finally saved enough to “secure the bag”; only to find out [to my dismay] that it had been discontinued.
What Kate Spade offered the world and the fashion industry was permission to be innocent, playful, and sophisticated at the same time. Her stamp of approval made it OK to be both.
On a more serious note, Spade’s sudden and truly tragic passing, reiterates that notoriety and material wealth mean absolutely nothing if the fractured places of your heart and spirit are not mended. That void is a God sized hole that no person, no amount of success, and no amount of monetary gain can fill. ONLY Jesus can heal and eradicate that kind of hurt and suffering.
PLEASE if you are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, I prayerfully and lovingly urge you to seek help. Hold on to this truth in 1 John 4:18, “Perfect love casts out fear.” Know that you can never escape the reckless Love of Jesus Christ. You are not out of His reach and you are NOT alone. Remember, He died so that you didn’t have to.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255