We were drunk. Stupid teenagers thinking that we could make fun of every rule.
“Let’s go to Gabriel’s house and continue the party there!” one of my friends suggested.
“We don’t have a car!” I said.
“I’ll take everyone on the back of my pickup truck! Hop in!” Juan said while starting his truck’s engine.
I immediately hesitated, “I don’t think it’s safe!”
“Aahhh… don’t be a wooze Hector! Come on! Everything will be okay!” Juan said.
“I don’t like the idea!”
Everyone was ready to go, partying, singing, drinking and fooling around.
It was very late at night. I had two options, call my mom to come pick me up or simply go with the flow.
I ignored my gut and followed my friends.
We were balancing ourselves as the truck moved forward. Juan, the truck driver, wasn’t responsible of us sitting — and standing on the back of the pickup.
A quick turn was enough to change the rest of my life. One of my best friends lost balance and was thrown off the back.
“Stop! Stop! Stop!” I shouted to the top of my lungs while hitting the rooftop of the pickup.
Juan stopped.
We quickly jumped out of the box to assist my friend. He was bleeding. His head was totally covered with blood and unconscious. He had landed with his head on a yellow speed bump causing him to fracture his head.
We took him to the hospital. Four days later he passed away. He was 16 years old.
To this day, his parents cry every time they see me because I bring memories of their son. I’m always speechless. I can only imagine how I could have prevented this life-changing event for every one of us.
I lacked character.
To answer your question:
Not trusting your instinct, your conscience, your spirit or however you want to call it; will bring terrible regrets that may last a lifetime.
Today, I’m aware of that “small voice” that somehow, I know I shouldn’t ignore anymore.
Yet, it all comes down to character, strength, and courage to stand my ground even when temptation or peer pressure is on.
-Hector Quintanilla
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