My Free Write is more like a journal entry because my mind is preoccupied with some sad personal events that have happened over the past several days. Poor choices can ruin not only opportunities but also friendships. A German foreign exchange student named Nele came in August to stay with my aunt and uncle. Two years ago, her brother stayed with my aunt and uncle and our family became very close with him, even after he left we kept in touch. He’s even been back to visit a couple of times. My family and I were so excited that we would have a chance to get to know his sister, Nele.
A few days ago, Nele was accused of stealing clothes from her friends’ room. She denied the allegations and was given the benefit of the doubt while they sorted out the whole thing. Eventually, it was proven she did steal the clothing. She went to great lengths to cover it up and even when confronted with the truth, she refused to take responsibility for her actions. The exchange program and her parents decided the punishment for her poor behavior would be not letting her finish the exchange program and sending her home to Germany immediately, I never even had a chance to say goodbye in person.
As a result of her bad decisions I have lost a friend who I truly looked up to and depended on, my aunt and uncle feel betrayed by someone they opened their home to and our whole family feels sad and disappointed because we all have come to love her. Her parents lost thousands of Euro because the exchange agency fees are non-refundable and her brother is probably embarrassed by his sisters’ behavior. Her friends from Farmington High also probably feel betrayed and are probably checking their closets to see if anything is missing. Nele has also lost a lot. She has lost the trust and respect of a lot of people. She has lost an opportunity not very many kids get. She had the chance to live in different country and experience a high school system that is different from her own. Even though she is 16, she was admitted to Farmington High as a senior so she could experience graduation, prom, the all night party and all the cool things that happen when you’re a senior. It is amazing how much one persons bad decision can affect so many people’s lives.
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Wow, this is a very sad blog. At least she's still in America though. It was very well written, I could feel your emotions.
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