My friend spiritually saved my life.

I have a dear friend getting married today (probably married by now! gah) So I've been reflecting on her impact in my life and I could definitely state she had a very positive one, perhaps the greatest in my youth - but we'll never know....

I'll start off by saying, if you aren't an individual of great faith, this story may not mean much to you now, but maybe some day. 

Between 14-15 yrs old

I had a "rebel phase" where I turned against my beliefs, in secret from my parents... I did many things that were not in accordance with the gospel. That's not the point, so fast- forward... I was without any really close friends for several months because of this change in my standards... my "same-standard" friends did welcome me back for lunch time in high school and such, but things just weren't the same. It was hard to connect with them after what I had done.

It was my 16th birthday... but I didn't have anything planned. No party, not even with family. It was very depressing. I just thought, 'screw it, I'm going clubbing... being good isn't worth it.' I put on my makeup with every intention of drinking and getting down with some dude at a club. There was a guy on the bus that mentioned going to a certain club and condescendingly said, "it's not your kind of place, you wouldn't like it." He didn't know the life I had recently left behind and I knew exactly what to expect. My mom thought I was just going to go drive somewhere, maybe get a bite to eat.

With a heavy, bitter heart, I had my purse and threw the front door open... only to see my friend Pamela standing there, along with some other friends she dragged along - all to surprise me on my birthday. I'm in tears right now... that night would have significantly changed the path I was on, for how long - I don't know. Whether you're Mormon or not, a teen girl going to a club alone looking for trouble is pretty dangerous. 

Amy and Pam at 2002 Winter Olympics

Ever since then... I've tried to make my life worth it, I've never faltered on those "big" commandments connected with morality and the word of wisdom doctrine. Ever since then, I've tried to help others - whether they asked for it or not - maintain their standards. To help them feel loved and cared about.

If you ever see a friend out to hurt themselves, intentionally or not... pray you'll know what to say when it comes, and please say something. Eh, you might regret what you say if it's not received well, but you would definitely regret saying nothing.