Aerin’s Tribute
The best hello and the hardest goodbye—meeting Maya was one of the greatest gifts this world has given me. Though I am overwhelmed with sadness and grief, I am eternally grateful for the profound presence she was in my life. Maya was not just a friend; she was a guiding light, a sister, and a cherished confidant, embodying qualities beyond what words can fully capture.
When I think of Maya, I think of her boundless zest for life. Her motto, "YOLO"—you only live once—was not just a catchphrase but a way of living that she embraced with every fiber of her being. Her spirit was infectious, and she made it a point to make each day a new story to tell or just another “manic episode”, reminding us all of the beauty in embracing life fully.
Meeting Maya at WashU was transformative; she made me feel at home and appreciated just for being me. When I needed it most, Mai opened her arms wide and welcomed me with a warmth that only she could offer. Her embrace was a sanctuary of unconditional support and love. That was Maya—always ready to envelop those around her in comfort and acceptance. You could see this so evidently at every pre game we hosted at the apartment. She would consistently invite anyone and everyone always ensuring people felt like they belong. Maya was a beacon of love, laughter, and kindness to everyone she met. She was impossible not to love.
Her laughter was a remedy, her encouragement a driving force. She was a part of my life’s fabric, and her absence leaves a void that feels impossible to fill. Yet, her presence lingers in my daily life—her laugh echoes in my mind, her hugs, even the ones I had to beg for, feel like they are still around me. When I hear her disapproving “AeRINNNNNN” (knowing I am making the wrong decision) or at every scent of vanilla, I am reminded of her and feel her with me.
Maya was a whirlwind of energy, always trying to keep up my fast walking pace which was the funniest little waddle, barging into my room at all hours to rampage through my closet even though she had god knows how many clothes and ten times cuter outfits, and of course cannot forget, the worlds best personal alarm clock saying “aeriiii time to get up, with no answer from me, that yielded yanking my blankets off me, really getting me up. I cherish the memories of our movie nights on the couch all cuddled up, mindlzzz nights, and countless spontaneous and “manic” adventures. I can still hear her voice, urging me to do another lap down Wash Ave, blasting Lana Del Rey, and singing with abandon. Maya would beg for one more lap just to scream from the top of my sun roof, reveling in freedom. These moments are now precious echoes of a life lived with fervor and joy.
Thank you, Mai Mai, for everything. You were one hell of a girl, and I am incredibly lucky to have known you. You are forever a part of me.
May her memory forever be a blessing.
I love you.
