The death of a senior at Plainedge High School this week is a tragic reminder of the consequences that come from making poor decisions. Young people, still finding their way in life, frequently make poor choices about things, but most often they are fortu­nate enough to move on with their lives, becoming older and wiser. In this case, that did not happen. Exactly what took the life of Natalie Ciappa, of Massapequa, days be­fore her graduation is not known. What is known is that there were mistakes made, and that they resulted in her death.

By all accounts Natalie was a popular student, a cheerleader and a young woman with a beautiful voice, silenced all too soon. If there is anything good to come from this loss, it is that Natalie's fate is a reminder to all young people that they are not invin­cible.

They must care for themselves, and for others, and they must recognize dangerous situations and have the courage and determination to avoid them.

Our hearts go out to the Ciappa family for their un­bearable loss. May the brightness of Natalie's smile warm their hearts and may her love of life keep them close during this most difficult time.