Jules

Dear Zavala family,

Please accept my deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time. I can't imagine how you must be feeling, but please know that you are immensely loved and supported. 

I had the pleasure of officially meeting Sam in drama class during my junior year (his sophomore year). We grew very close for some time, especially during the production of LLHS' "A Midsummer Night's Dream," but that relationship ended on an unfortunately bitter note. Nevertheless, Sam left an everlasting mark on my life and touched the lives of many others who knew him. He was a force to be reckoned with, and I think what you are doing to keep his memory alive is beautiful. 

After seeing Sara's post on Instagram, I immediately dug up some memories of us together. Once I find more, I'll happily send them over immediately. Attached are two pictures from Prom 2016, a short video of Sam and I rehearsing our final scene from "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and a picture of us in the show together. In the play, he played King Oberon and I played Queen Titania. Sam was electric on stage, and he motivated me to be a better actress, musician, and person overall. 

One of my favorite memories with Sam was at the cast party for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" in April of 2016. Sam knew I loved Amy Winehouse, and he kept requesting her music to be played while we danced—even when others opposed. Later that night, we were sitting together on the couch talking about the music we loved, as we usually did. I mentioned that Donny Hathaway was another one of my all-time favorite musicians, and he told me to play him the song I loved most. That's when we bonded over Donny Hathaway's "A Song for You." I remember how he fell in love with that song in an instant. "A Song for You" prompted a deep discussion about life, family, love, and dreams for the future. It was an incredibly special bonding moment I'll never forget. Listening back to it is painful not only because of the personal memories the song holds for me, but I think it also beautifully encapsulates his life. For a long time I couldn't listen to the song without thinking about Sam. Now, those memories have flooded back, but in a nostalgic and bittersweet way. 

The last time I was in contact with Sam was in June of 2018. Knowing what I know now, I regret the way the conversation went. We weren't very kind to one another prior to our last conversation, but that will never overshadow the relationship we previously shared. His energy, enthusiasm, vibrancy, unmistakable presence, and love of good music will never be forgotten.

I pray for your peace and closure, and hope that you find comfort soon. Thank you for allowing the opportunity to submit personal stories and memories with Sam. Sending you all my love and support.

Best wishes,

Juliana Filipenko (a.k.a. "Jules")