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The Johns Hopkins Newsletter
www.jhunewsletter.com

Staff Editorial: Linda Trinh, 1983-2005
February 04, 2005

It was a celebration of Linda Trinh's life this Wednesday -planned to mirror her life in its cheeriness and sense of light. Yet, an unspeakable sadness lay still throughout the service. Linda Trinh was a beloved presence at Hopkins and in the lives of those who knew her. It became clear to all present, that after this senseless tragedy, it will be impossible to fill the hole that Linda's passing has left on campus.

Linda distinguished herself countless times in her short time at Hopkins. She was an adept student, a gifted scientist, a talented athlete and a capable leader. But most of all, she was a loving friend, as, one by one, her friends came forth and shared.

At 21, her steps toward her goal of changing the world, toward serving others, were just being taken. But with Wednesday's service, it was clear how many lives she had already touched.

Speaking to a gym filled with over 1,000 students, her mentor spoke of her passion and commitment, her friends of her devotion and loyalty.

Her sorority sisters spoke of her love and kind spirit. Time and again, they vowed to live their lives better, to smile more, to be happier. They vowed to carry with them the enthusiasm and compassion that was second nature to Linda.

Linda Trinh's potential was unmatched; her contributions seemed destined to grow. But perhaps it is foolish to speak of what could have been, when her impact was already so great.

Linda Trinh has left us, but she has already changed our world. And while we reflect on her life, it will help to live every day as her friends all said she did: with a smile.