In loving memory of Basel Ayham Al Muhtashem, the artist Tina Al Muhtashem has created this digital artwork of him made on Procreate, in order to honor his memory. This artwork is extremely special to the artist as this was her, brother, best friend, and support system. Here’s a small message from the artist dedicated towards her brother Basel. 

 

Basel, Basoul, Baskoteh, no amount of words, pictures, paintings, and paragraphs will ever come close to how I feel about you. It aches my heart along with everyone who’s ever been a part of your life knowing we’ve lost such an amazing soul, pure, honest, humble, respected, caring and so I could go on and on about the number of traits you’ve had but even that would not be enough. 

 

I have had the honor of being raised, taught, loved, and cared for by such an amazing person, an honor to be called your sister and best friend. Nothing will ever come close to the amount of love I have for you, I promise I will be holding onto our memories, stories, and life for as long as I live. I can’t wait to grow up and name my son after you Basel, to tell him how amazing his uncle was, the man he was, and the things he’s left behind for us all to hold onto, the small signs you always give your loved ones when needed, and the dreams you pop in. It’ll be his honor to hold onto and carry out your name. 

 

You have left us all with beautiful memories, there was never a dull moment you’ve left behind, and our love for you continues growing. Although we are not able to see you, we feel your presence with us as you are always by our side. It broke the hearts of many to have lost you, yet a part of us all remains with you. Our hearts hold a place for you in which no one could ever fill.

 

Now, for those of you who may not know who Basel is, let me tell you a little about the man he was. He was the type of person you would only meet once in a lifetime, the person who would do his absolute best to make sure you have a good life regardless of how things may be for you, the type of person who would be very patient, generous, loving and caring even to those whom he may not properly have known. His presence alone would make an entire room shine, the energy he would radiate would always be pure, honest, and genuine.

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With that all being said, I am not going to be sharing a story or proceeding with this text as I could write endlessly and it would never come close to being enough, however, Basel's friends and family have had lots to say, lots of beautiful stories, and messages in which you may read as you scroll down. 

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If by chance you are a family member or a friend, even possibly an acquaintance of Basel and have something to share, please do not hesitate to contact me, via email- artificetofficial@gmail.com, or through Instagram, at; @artificet. 

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May your beautiful soul rest in peace Basoul, I love you, I will forever cherish our memories, and everything you have left behind.

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Small messages from Basel’s loved ones; 
 

Sara Al Karmi 

 

To my sweetest Basel: I was asked to write how you’ve impacted my life and the world around me but, truth be told, no amount of words, no matter how they are arranged, could ever really explain the impact you’ve had on us. Basel was a man - A man of honor; A man of kindness; A man of loyalty. I grew up in the same house as him, around him, around his friends, and around his family. I witnessed his behavior on a daily basis and he was somebody who treated everything and everyone with purity and kindness. He was the type of soul that was made for a better world, truly. He was the type of soul that was far too kind to be in the same lifetime as us. He was the type of soul that carried the entire world above his head. He has made me a kinder and stronger person. He has made me the person I am today, taught me right from wrong, and taught me kindness, forgiveness, and patience. The day Earth lost its’ purest soul I reminisced on all his teachings - and there were many - and quickly knew that the only thing that he would have asked of me was to be there to support his sister: My T. Maybe I cannot speak on how he’s impacted each individual of this world. But I can talk on how he’s impacted me and the people who were and still are intimate with him. It’s no surprise that his family grew to become some of the strongest people I know. With that strength came unconditional kindness and deep sympathy for others. He taught his youngest sister, now my best friend, that things happen without explanation in this world that works in mysterious ways - It’s up to you to be ready for whatever it throws at you. He was always her entire support system, as he was mine and so many others who needed him. He was always there. I can go on for days writing about you, my dear Basel, but I don’t think my words could ever do you justice for the man you are. 

 

Mohamed Rashad

 

I could write a whole book about how much of an admirable person Basel was, but this small story will explain it all. A few years ago, my father’s company went bankrupt so he lost his job. It was such a tough time for us filled with frustration and pain. My father was worried about the future, so I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t go out with my friends because I couldn’t afford it nor could I own anything all the other kids had. At some point, there was this famous game that all my friends played, but of course, I couldn’t own it so I was left out all the time. My friends would always tell me why don’t you go out with us? Why don’t you buy the game? And I would hide what was happening and say soon. I felt awful but never let anyone know. Then one day Basel sent me a message saying he has a surprise for me, but I didn’t think much of it. The next day he pulls out the game and tells me this is for you. Bare in mind I NEVER told him that I wanted it or that I couldn’t buy it. All he knew was that my father left his job. Basel even had the audacity to tell me “I am sorry I couldn’t get you the best version of the game.” I thought to myself are you crazy? It wasn’t my birthday or anything, it was just a normal day, but he not only sensed how I felt, paid money for the game, and took the time to go and buy it. But he even felt bad for not getting the best version for me. I will never forget him or this act of kindness and will cherish the gift for the rest of my life. He had nothing to get out of this, he just did it out of the kindness of his heart. He was the kind of friend anybody would wish for. The kind that would stick with you during tough times, and selflessly help out whenever he is needed. He taught me to be kind to everyone in need to become a better version of myself. I wish I could go on about how much I respect and love him, but all I will say is rest in peace brother. I will try my best to keep you proud and I sincerely wish your family the best because I have never met such respectable people. 

 

Marwan Abu Ghazale 

 

The only friend that I can call a brother. All the memories we had together, from going to each other’s houses, to playing online games all day to playing football together all the time. You literally changed my life and made me a completely different human in many better ways. You were the most hard-working person I know. I really miss you so much and you’re always in my prayers brother 

 

Mohammad Al Awadhi

 

I know Basel from my older brother, they were very close friends since they were little. The more I hung out with him and my brother. The more I saw him becoming like an older brother to me. The hobbies and adventures he likes to go on such as, visiting the desert, playing football, and taking videos in the coolest ways possible, all had an impact on me because I have similar hobbies. Having a person by your side that likes to do the same activities you do is like finding the perfect person to have fun with. All my fun experiences were learned by following in his footsteps. He was never afraid to go to new places and discover what we were afraid of discovering. Now I always look forward to spending the same days he used to spend and making the most of my time by having fun just like he did. 

 

Annabelle Ghanem

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September 2012. I had just made the decision to switch schools for my 7th grade, and there I was walking into a building with blue walls with no expectations, anticipations, or predictions of what was to come, or who I was going to meet. But on that very first day, a boy, quite tall for his age, with the most peaceful aura surrounding him, approached me. That boy introduced himself, and invited me to his little sister’s birthday party that very weekend. I was confused to say the least, and kept asking myself why he would do that? He didn’t even know me. Something in me however, told me that I should go, and so I did.

 

That very night, I ended up meeting some of the most amazing people who I am grateful to call family, 10 years later. Most of them were new to the school just like I was, and so I asked the boy, why would you invite us all to your sister’s birthday, you barely knew any of us? And he responded saying, moving schools is a difficult change for anyone who experiences it, it’s always nice to start off with some friends. And that, is how I met Basel Muhtashem.

 

I’ve always believed that the best way to introduce someone is by showing the impact that they have left on you, and on this world. And Basel is a light that everyone should meet, through our words and our stories, through the change he has created. So let me introduce my best friend.

 

Fast forward a few months, it was my 13th birthday. And if you know me I made it as extra as it could’ve been. But as usual, nothing was ever extra enough when it came to Basel's friends. The clearest memory I have that day was of a big red bear walking through the door, much bigger than the person holding it. It took me two seconds to realize the person holding it, and sure enough, it was Basel. We named that bear Shabashibou and he became our favorite story for years.

 

We’re 16 now, getting the first sweet tastes of the realities of life and what’s to come for us. Our school hosted a university fair with institutions coming from all over the globe. Of course my eyes completely darted to the New York section. I began asking and gathering pamphlets with the biggest look of excitement on my face. Basel came up to me as I was grabbing the last one and took it from my hand. He asked if this is the one I wanted, and I told him I wasn’t sure, but I knew New York was the place for me. He took a second and responded saying, “then New York it is, for both of us.”

 

From the endless Thursdays where he would invite the entire group to his house and take us karting, to the memories of us both going to football practice at my parents’ club. If you were to ask my parents about who Basel is to them, my mom would say he was her greatest friend and support throughout their experiences in football as well as through their experiences having a crazy teenage daughter always out and about in high school. They never even batted an eyelash if Basel was the one asking if I could go to a party (and I milked that advantage so badly).

 

On my graduation day, I came out of the auditorium to find my parents, and found Basel standing right next to them, already working his magic to get their approval of my attendance at the after party (we didn’t even talk about this strategy beforehand). As usual, my dad simply said if Basel’s there then there was no problem.

 

Senior year was the one I remember most of my time with him. Jet skiing in Sharjah, shopping and dinner trips to Serendipity, and above all just talking. Talking about the adventures we were going to go on, the long awaited euro trip we wanted to plan considering the reality of New York became impossible, and he was off to Hungary to become none other than a doctor. What a fitting profession for someone as selfless as he was now that I think of it. We had so many plans, pacts and promises, most of which we never got to realize. But there was one promise I have held with me every single moment of my life to this very day.

 

Our last day in school, the place where we had met, I was a nervous wreck for the change that was about to happen. I wish I could remember his exact words, but the ones that I do are the following:

 

“Annabelle, if I were to bet on anyone in the world and their success, it’s you. You’re going to do great things in this life and I’m going to be behind you all the way no matter what. You’re my best friend.”

 

And he is, and always will be. Every time I feel powerless I remember him. Every obstacle I encounter I pray for him. The world might have taken my best friend away, and prevented me from speaking to him. But I still hear him. His grace, strength, and selflessness echoes in most of the actions I take throughout my life. And I write to you all with such humbleness telling you that I am so grateful for the lessons that Basel Muhtashem’s lifetime on this earth has taught me. To be kind to everyone around me, to never let a single soul feel lonely or out of place. To support and love wholeheartedly to those who deserve it and those who don’t. To shoot big always and never be afraid to fall for I have an army to catch me.  And most of all, to look at everything that happens in the brightest and most positive light, for the world might’ve taken the opportunity of ever seeing Basel again from me, but it can never take away who he is to me;  my strength, my support, my symbol of light and genuineness, my forever best friend.

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Eve Tannous 

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If ever there was a kind person, compassionate, and loving person, Basel was the
perfect embodiment of such wonderful characteristics. Gone too soon, he was an angel on
earth, as he is one in heaven as we speak. Basel Al Muhtashem was a kind soul, he was the kind of person who was friends with everyone, who all teachers loved and admired, he had no bad bone in his body. He was the familiar smile you would want to see on a Monday morning. He contributed to his environment in any way he could, which made him selfless and considerate of his surroundings. Have you ever had that one kid at school that absolutely everybody loved, and no one had a bad thing to say about him? His presence filled the room with so little words, he was quiet yet oozing out confidence and pride, he was a better example of who everyone should aspire to be. A very fond memory of Basel and I sits right at the front of my brain. I used to play this virtual game which required real life money in order to get some coins. Basel was so interested and invested in helping me out, he repeatedly bought me coins, just to see a smile on my face. I once played that game at his house and he showed more excitement than I did, which was refreshing. “The best index to a person’s character is how he treats people who can’t do him any good.” Selfless, compassionate, kind soul, smart, calming, genuine, funny, purest heart. I will forever be jealous of the beautiful soul you possessed; I want to be you when I grow up. Fly high angel, forever in our hearts.

 

Layan Eissa

 

We meet people over the course of our lifetime to that could have little to no importance on our lives, whether it be temporary or long-term waves of impact, we forge ties with people that are built on months or maybe years of experiences, predicaments, trust, loyalty, etc. In some cases, things outside one’s control happen and sever those ties, whether it be voluntary/involuntary, harmful disputes or misunderstandings, and in unfortunate cases, death. 

I went to college in the fall of 2018; Basel and I had met the year prior and were only beginning to build a strong friendship. I always thought of him as one of the kindest, purest souls I had come across. He is kind, compassionate, and, most of all, the kind of person you know would hug you for hours and hours if that’s what you needed and would still ask if that was enough. Five days after the last time we spoke, I heard the news. It took me several days to process, but it completely shattered me; that was the first time I had any sort of reality check that was so massive it took me about a year to fully wrap my head around. When you build a friendship with someone that radiates mutual pure intentions and love, you don’t think of the level of impact it has on you until it’s stripped away from you. The feelings of guilt that wash over you are suffocating and the feelings of missing someone but there’s no way around that breaking your heart over and over. As much as I beat myself up about it, there is no doubt that the world lost a remarkable soul, but heaven gained one of its most precious ones yet. I believe that the world is too cruel a place for people like Basel to exist in and so, I believe this all happened for his own good. You might wonder why I speak of him in the present tense, and that is because, in my heart, he will never be gone. He is always all around the people that love him and will always come through if one really and truly needed him. If that doesn’t emphasize the kind of person he is, I don’t know what will, and that is only after a single year of not-so-frequent interactions.

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Adam Atallah 

 

Basel,

 

I can't access my Snapchat, so I can't see what our last conversation was like. My last, actual, tangible proof of our interactions is gone.

 

It feels weird to say, never thought it would ever be a sentence I would utter, or in this case, write I guess. I miss you. More than I ever thought I would.

 

I always look back at bbachampion and think about the comments you would send me, and how you would seem genuinely excited about me releasing a new video.

 

And now I can't look at any of those messages anymore.

  

Basel was the purest soul I've ever known. Someone with infinite kindness to give. I know because I've received it, even when I didn't deserve it.

 

He was someone who would put the weight of the whole world on his shoulders, if it meant making one of his friends crack a smile.

 

Basel,

 

I've always owed a lot of my "successes" to you. You believed in me when I didn't, and for that I will be forever grateful.

 

When everyone I know who knew you has nothing but the highest of praises to say about you, then I know that I was lucky to even have you as an acquaintance, let alone a childhood friend.

 

You've impacted the people around you in ways that you couldn't have even imagined, and I say that in the best of ways.

 

I hope I make you proud.

 

Haissam Issa

 

Bassel the bliss, exuded peace, comfort, and serenity amongst those who were lucky enough to meet him. He radiates trustworthiness and warmth that 5 min into meeting him you feel like you’ve been his best friend since forever.

Bassel, this young soul, is the true definition of a “friend”, he supports and protects, and he never misses a chance of inspiring and motivating his friends. He is a combination of many qualities: sociable, caring, loving, tender, and most importantly fond of his family.

 

I knew Bassel’s true heart during an adventure we went through together.

I once took to the desert and Bassel was in the passenger seat to dune bash. We drove over an hour to get to the Entrance to the Desert; however, we were less than 20 meters in when we met an unforeseen ditch that left us with a burst tire and damaged fender. Bassel was there with me picking the pieces, pushing the car, and fixing the tire with little tools and we both managed to get the car out of the desert and into the repair shop. Throughout this 4 hours exhausting experience, Bassel provided moral support and a helping hand!

 

Bassel the young son & loving brother with the most reassuring calming smile that we started to miss, May You Rest in Peace.

 

Dana Saeed

 

Time…heals? 

When Tina approached me to write something for the loving memory of her brother, Bassel. One of the most difficult things to me was to find the right words to express the sadness we all truly felt when he left us too soon. I got to know Bassel in the place he felt home at, ISAS. He was full of life and passion for every detail around him and that I admired a lot about him. 

...و هلق، اسمحلي يا باسل إحكي عن قصتك بينك و بيني و باللغة الي انت بتحبها

باسل كان يخاف على اختو تينا كتير و يخاف على زعلها أكتر. مرة تينا كانت جاية بباص المدرسة، و صار معها خلاف بسيط مع شخص و هاد الشي زعجها و خلا نهارها مو رايق. باسل بيرفض يفوت عصفه قبل ما يحكي معي بحكم اني كنت مسؤولة عن قسمه بالمدرسة، و بقلي شغلة بحياتي ما حانساها " أنا مستحيل اقبل انو اختي تكون زعلانة، أنا بخاف على اختي كتير و لازم احميها" ابتسمت و قلتلو إنو اختو قد حالها و انو اكيد هي بتعرف تتصرف بس أكيد وجودك جنبها بقويها، إنت بتحميها لما تخليها تعتمد عحالها من دون حتى مساندتك. اقتنع و قلي انو هالتعصيبه  كانت من حبو و خوفو عليها. و هلق يا باسل إختك عم تتخرج و عم تحقق الشي الي كنت بتتمانالها ياه، اختك الصغيرة كبرت و صارت قد حالها متل ما كان بدك و أكتر. إلك فقدك يا حبيب الكل.

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Aqeel Al-Kuhlani

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A pure soul and warm memories

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Rana Salah Hassoun

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لما منفقد شخص عزيز منتعرض للحزن لفترات كبيرة بسبب حبنا إلو. هلأ بالنسبة إلي أنا حبيتو من لما كان بيبي وباللفة، حبيبي هو شوفتو بتفرح القلب وابتسامتو فيها طيبة الدنيا كلها. ومرت الأيام والسنين بسرعة وكبر باسل الغالي وصار أحلى شب وكامل بصفاتو والكمال لله طبعا، بس يمكن قضاء الله كان بأنو شخص بهالمواصفات قريب كمان لرب العالمين ممكن حكمة ربنا بوفاتو لأنو بحبو كتير فاختارو ليكون عندو. نحن بطبيعتنا البشرية ما منتحمل الفقد والبعد بس الي بصبر هو مكانتو الابدية والي هي ان شاء الله بأعلى المراتب
أنا حبيتو بحياتو وتمنيت قدملو وأسعدو بعد وفاتو وما في شي متل الدعاء والفضل لرب العالمين انو عملت عمرة عنو وحاولت اعملها بالعشر الأواخر من رمضان وخلال فترة الصيام عسى إنو يكون الأجر أكبر الله يتقبل يارب وباذن الله إذا الله كتبلي الحج عنو ما رح قصر. المحبة الحقيقة بنظري هي الي من دون مقابل وأنا بحبو كتير. الله يصبر كل قلب تعب من الفراق وبالنهاية هيدا قضاء الله 
الله يرحم احبابنا ويجعل مثواهم الجنة ويجمعنا فيهم 
 

Rasha Hassoun

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Your smile, your warmth, your melodious voice is what’s left for me! Yet they are enough to know that you were one in a million.

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Those priceless memories of you riding your bike in Salma with your eyes full of excitement and your knees bleeding due to the number of falls on the road while playing with your blondie sister Tina on the other bike behind you. Yes, I do live those moments over and over to enjoy those shy smile on your sweet little face, it is unbearable to let the river of memories starts but believing with all my heart that you are way happier strengthen me to go back again and dive through those days, those magical summer days.

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Your mom used to call you Baskoteh! And wow, how that simple link between your innocent smile and a delicious treat made it painful for me to move on your loss! No words can tell how hard it was to let go, to say goodbye, to accept that this was your destined time on Earth with us! I was never able to communicate any of my feeling with anyone before until today, I don’t have the courage to speak, it is so cruel.

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I wish we could enjoy the beginning and middle of life, and then skip the ending. I am thankful that I have memories of you and I pray that Allah grants you peace and strengthen our belief to go through our lives peacefully too until the promised day comes and the chain links again.

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Missing you my dear sweet Basel comes as naturally as breathing to me! You will always live in my heart, and I look into my kids now and call them Baskoteh hoping they will have a charming smile and a beautiful sole like yours.

It will never heal, it will never go away, I will carry you in my hear until we meet again.

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Mohamed Omar Tawfeeq

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In loving memory of Basel Al Muhtashem.

Basel to me was a friend I could count on and rely on. We built a friendship over 6-7 years
starting from middle school to the end of high school. We would spend school days and
vacations playing video games together daily, passing around good times, laughs, and fun. We always had a daily interaction with each other, and every interaction was more unique than the other. He always had a calming and diplomatic presence, and would often resolve arguments between others and give valuable advice to any situation or issue anyone was saving. I was more mischievous at the time, yet he was always patient with me and helped me learn to be more considerate and understanding to others. He has helped shape my personality and ideals into what it is today, and this change is lifelong, and I will never forget and always be grateful for him; he of himself had a more mature mindset and wisdom.

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Our friendship began to grow to its peak around the final year of high school, where our late-night video gaming, chatting, and laughing grew to a wider group and became more present through real-life plans and events. We grew closer and began to interact in person through plans, hangouts, events, and birthdays, and our friendship reached an all-time high during the summer of 2018. Around that time, I realized how much he had always done for me, and it made me appreciate him more.

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My fondest memory of him was school winter breaks where we would spend the entirety of that period playing and investing time in a video game known as “Counter Strike: Global Offensive.” In that game, we played, trained, practiced, and strategized to reach the highest
rank/achievement competitively; we started from the bottom of the barrel up until we finally
reached the top after all the hard work, time, and effort we spent together investing in the video game. We would often play until daybreak every night playing with friends to achieve our determination and reach our goals. While many might see it as a waste of time since it is a video game and a virtual premise, it was what began shaping a friendship for life and
challenged us as individuals to go through extreme and difficult situations and still look towards achieving a positive outcome and sense of achievement from it; it made us determined people and shaped us to always be optimistic and confident of our abilities and determination.

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To this day, I am reminded of his presence and am thankful for everything he has done for me. He will always live in my memory and be a part of what I want to achieve in life and a part of myself and my adventurous spirit. May his soul eternally be at peace.

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Majd Shaaban

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The image I have of him based on what I hear is that he was an amazing person like a truly unique soul because I’ve never ever in my life heard anyone speak but good things about him I’ve never heard anyone say a single bad incident or anything in all honesty. And for a person to have all of this being said about them it means that he was truly a genuinely good amazing person because you can’t be loved by everyone but he was and to me, it makes him without a doubt in my head an amazing person. And you know I wish I had the chance to meet him. 

 

Hala Matraji 

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باسل الشب الخلوق المحب الذكي اللي روحو حلوة وقلبو ابيض متل الفل  ممكن الفترة اللي تعرفت فيها عليك كانت قليلة بس كانت كافية لاقدر اعرف مقدار الارادة والتصميم الموجود عندك وكمية الرجولة والثقة بالنفس  والنظرة الثاقبة اللي بتتميز فيهم... انتا خسارة كبيرة لكل اللي بيعرفوك واكتر لامك وابوك ...انتا باقي بقلوب كل محبينك 

❤❤

 

Margo Khneisser 

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The first time we met Muhtashem family was in the desert and Basel was maybe 6 or 7 at that time. We were almost every weekend together either in the desert or some other outdoor event. Basel grew in front of our eyes ..he was the sweetest kid someone can imagine, always polite, always with a smile, always so kind, we never ever saw him fight even with his brother or sister.  He had the kindest and pure soul, and we loved him so dearly…it was too cruel to lose him and we only hope to be with him in another life. Love you Basel ❤❤❤for always

 

Mohammed Ammouna 

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في عام 2001 وتحديداً في بداية شهر يناير كنت أعيش أجمل أيام عامي التاسع والعشرين وعلى الرغم

 .من برودة الجو إلا أن حرارة الشباب المغمورة بالحب كانت تمحو أي شعور بالبرد

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على الرغم من أنني في تلك الأثناء لم أكون أرى سوى خطيبتي الجميلة إلا أن هذا الطفل الذي كانوا
يسمونه بسكوته قد سلب قلبي من اللحظة الأولى التي رأيته بها ورفع سقف طموحي بأن يكون هو شعار
للمرحلة الجميلة التي نعيشها أنا و شريكة المستقبل وبأن يكون لنا حلم أن نرزق بمثله عندما نتزوج وكنا

.نسمي فترة خطوبتنا بالكامل بسكوته تيمناً به

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.هذا الطفل الممتلئ الخدين بهي الطلعة الذي كان يتوسطنا دائماً وهو نائماً كان ملهماً لنا وشريك أحلامنا

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اليوم وبعد مرور واحد وعشرون عاماً أشارككم هذا الذكريات الجميلة التي لا يزال بسكوته حلمي الذي
لم يتحقق فلا أنا رزقت ببسكوته ولا بقي بسكوته الملهم ولعل أجمل مافي الأحلام أنها لا تتحقق كي تبقى

.ذكرى تحيى بداخلنا وتذكرنا بأجمل أيام حياتنا

 

Bilal Ahmed 

Dear Basel,

This is my letter of appreciation to you.

Though I never got to wholeheartedly experience the safe space your soothing presence
provided to so many, I was still lucky enough to experience the pieces of you, Basel
Muhtashem, that every single one of your loved ones so honorably carry within themselves and spread out to the world every day of their lives.

I hope you Rest In Peace knowing the beautiful differences you’ve made in this world. In your loss, we found a wealth of knowledge and grace. I hope you lay in comfort knowing that in your remembrance; the skies seem brighter, sunsets feel warmer, melodies sound kinder & conversations become more precious.

Basel, I don’t think there goes a single day in her life where Tina doesn’t cherish and celebrate yours. Honestly, I don’t think it’s possible for her not to. Even before you left, we both knew that Tina is a fierce and passionate girl with a very successful future ahead of her. However after you left, it is with so much pleasure that I get to write to you that she took all that grief and turned it into the source of her drive; the drive that has turned her to the kind, powerful, confident, & ever inspiring woman that she is today. There is a fire within her and I thoroughly look forward to the way she’s going to show it to the whole world.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un

Rest easy Basel.

Love,
Bilal

Mayada Ammouna 

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❤باسل المحتشم
يا بعد عمري ويا حبيب قلبي، ابني وابن أختي الغالية.
شو ما حكيت وشو ما كتبت لا أستطيع أن أصف هالإنسان الرائع المبتسم الطيوب الخيّر والمتفائل بالحياة.
كنت أعشق حبه لأخته الصغيرة تينا، كان يداريها ويخدمها، ولا يمكن أن يرفض لها طلب، منذ أن كان طفلاً، واستمرت هذه المعاملة الرائعة إلى أن أصبحا شاب وصبية.
أجمل الأوقات قضيناه معه، ولا سيما عندما كان يسافر والداه ويتركاه وأخته عندنا ببيت العين، كنا نلعب ونتصور ونذهب للمول ونضحك من قلبنا.
كنا نناديه "بسكوتة" منذ صغره، لأنه فعلاً بسكوتة، لذيذ وبشرته بتاخد العقل كالبسكويت، سألته قبل دخوله للجامعة، هل نستطيع بالاستمرار بمناداتك ب "بسكوتة"، فأجاب ضاحكاً "نعم".
كان مشغول دائماً ومسؤول ولديه أعمال كثيرة يريد أن ينجزها (هكذا كنت أشعر)، كان رياضي، بشوش، يركّز في أدق التفاصيل، ركب معي بسيارتي القديمة (كير عادي) وكان عمره حوالي 3 سنوات وكان يتابعني كيف أسوق، فقال لي: ماما لا تعمل كما تعملين، .قصده باستعمال الكير، حيث كانت سيارة أمه كير أتوماتيك
ما إن أكمل 18 عام حتى أصرّ على الحصول على رخصة القيادة، وبالفعل لم يبدأ الدراسة بجامعته بهنغاريا إلى ومعه رخصة القيادة الإماراتية حيث حصل عليها بتاريخ 20 أغسطس 2018 وبعدها بكام يوم سافر لبودابست...

😊روحه معنا وستبقى إلى الأبد. بحبك بسكوتة 

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Walid Dewedar 

​

I never had the honor to meet Basel in person but hearing about him made me feel that he was my friend. He was loved by all people because he was kind and welcoming and always there for his friends and family.

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Kareem Mahairi

​

To the person who I find as one of the most loved human being that I met, he had one of the purest hearts. Basel was an amazing person especially when every time I used to see him or say hi to him, he always had a huge smile on his face to whoever he is with, whether he liked that person or not as in he inspired people to always be happy or be positive to any person you are with. Whenever I used to talk to him, he was so chill and he had almost the same personality as I did in which I felt like I understood Basel really well. Basel was a person that also cared about a lot of people where he basically prioritized everyone he loves and when I used to see him in school, he really took care of his younger sister by being always there for her and always caring about her health and safety. One day, a school teacher was talking to me on how much Basel was a good person and how much he loves supporting people on achieving their goals and doing as much as they can. Thank you Basel for everything you did for everyone and for caring about everyone, thank you for always bringing positive energy and vibes when you were with us, thank you for being one of the people that had the biggest heart. May your beautiful soul Rest in Peach. We miss you everyday, we will always miss you and love you.

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Louay Haidar 

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Everyone around me was close to Basel. Even tho I didn't know him personally, I feel a big connection with him. After many years of being close to his closest friends, I was always able to feel this mutual motivation that they all owe everything they do to him. Everyone would credit everything they accomplish to him and their constant stories that all connect with happy moments makes his presence in my life very frequent. Never believed this before but I felt like I owe him protection and care for the people we have as mutuals.

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Serine Itani 

To Basel,

A few years have passed since I found out I lost one of my best friends. Despite this,
nothing will ever heal the wound that you left in my heart. I think of you all the time Basel,
because you were genuinely a special soul and one of the kindest people I have ever met in
my entire life. I wish you could see how far I’ve come in life. You don’t understand how
much I wish that Basel, because you’re the one who always encouraged me to get out of my
comfort zone and you were the one who pushed me to always work hard to accomplish my
goals.

​

“You will always reach your goals. Why? Because you’re Serine Itani.” You told me
this when I was complaining to you about my last year of high school and when I had no idea what I wanted to do in life. Who knew those would be some of the last words you’d ever say to me? You were such a supportive friend Basel, and I’m in so much pain thinking that you will never know how much your words have meant to me and how much they have impacted every aspect of my life. I’m in so much pain knowing that we will never be able to share our accomplishments and our experiences with each other again. Most of all, I’m in so much pain knowing that you will never get to see how much you shaped every person in your life in some way or another.

​

I’m grateful to have known a man like you. You shaped my childhood in many ways
and believe it or not, you continue to shape my adulthood with words you have shared with
me when we were 16. Every time I think of you, I know you’re there. I know you’re
watching over all of us.

​

I miss you all the time Basel. Thank you for bringing me Poke when you knew I was
craving it. Thank you for being so patient with me when I wouldn’t stop complaining about
things that didn’t even matter. But mostly, thank you for teaching me so much at such a

young age. Your words and spirit will always stay with me. I hope you are resting peacefully.
I love you so much.

​

Your Poke best friend, Serine.

​

Abdulaziz Al Ashram

​

My friend and brother Basel Al Muhtashem was the dearest friend to me and I considered him part of my family. We had so many adventures and cherished memories together. Basel was truly God's gift to everyone around him, his friends, family and strangers. He was always very affectionate, kind, honest, and loyal to all of his friends and family. Even to the people he did not know, he would always show them respect and God's grace. I truly miss him all the time and forever cherish all the time we spent together. He showed me what it was like to be loyal and a great friend, how to laugh and how to be serious. I am sure that everyone that has every encountered Basel have felt the same way about him and felt his light in his presence and his absence. I pray for all the kind memories and moments he has left behind to forever linger in the hearts of his loved ones for he was truly one of a kind and a gem. He was and Carries on to be a blessing to everyone he has touched and been a part of their life. It was an honor to be your friend and brother, Basel.

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Mazen Al Ansari 

Dear Basel,

​

When I think of you, I think of a young man who through both his words and his actions was kind, thoughtful, and generous. A man with a huge heart that was inviting and a witty sense of humor that was effortless. To highlight some of these amazing qualities that you possessed, I want to take the opportunity to share a story about the time that we went to Ski Dubai together, alongside a large group of our classmates, to celebrate graduating from High School. It sounded like a fun day planned. The only problem was, I didn’t know how to ski… 

​

Here is a snippet of our conversation about it:

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Basel: MAZEN

    SATURDAY

    SKI 

    AND YOU’RE COMING

      (…)

    Saturday ski

    Don’t forget

    You’re not allowed to skip it

      (…)

Mazen: BUT I DON’T KNOW HOW TO SKI

Basel: If u skip imma be mad

Mazen: NO DON’T BE MAD

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This conversation always makes me laugh. You and a couple of others were pretty convincing and persistent. So I eventually gave in and decided to join you pros on the ski slope, even though I had never put on a pair of skis in my life prior to then (I still can’t believe I went with you guys). Anyways, fast forward a bit and we end up on the ski slope. We were all hanging out, talking, and taking photos, but all I kept thinking about was how I would be able to ski down the slope without falling on my face. You and Annabelle were the main two who were teaching me a few techniques on how to maneuver with my skis, but you were the one who took the extra step. I was very reluctant to give it a try because I was convinced that I was going to injure myself, but you insisted on helping me out regardless. You were so persistent that you even offered to go down the first mini slope with me by skiing backwards and gripping my hands to hold me upright, to which I refused. It seemed like a terrible idea, because I was worried that I would crush you with my weight or crash into you or something, so I told you that there was no way we were going to attempt that. But of course, you kept insisting and you were NOT GIVING UP ON THE IDEA. You said that you were strong enough to hold me up and be able to ski backwards with no problem. As you may have already guessed, I caved! It turns out, you were right; mashAllah you were strong enough to keep both of us standing, but I still can’t believe that we actually did it and that no one got hurt. Despite your confidence in being able to help me, as well as my trust in you, both of us took a deep sigh of relief that I didn’t crash into you and laughed about it. I’ll never forget that day for the rest of my life. From that very day, I never forgot what you did for me. It’s largely because of you and your generosity that I was able to have such a memorable adventure that day. You went out of your way and took time out of your own skiing session to help me out, all so that I wouldn’t miss out on the activity with you guys. We even joked about the situation afterwards on the group chat, where you said that I ‘owe you a Ski Dubai ticket’ since most of the session was used to teach me how to ski :’), and I promised that I would get you one to make up for it. This is definitely one of my top few favorite memories with you, if not my favorite. 

​

Looking through our conversations, I’m glad that I was able to remind you of how much I valued and still value our friendship, and how grateful I am to have you as a close friend in my life. Although I did not know you that long, I’m eternally grateful for the fact that we got closer in senior year and the summer that followed. And even though we didn’t get the chance to do everything we wanted to do together, the memories we did get to make and the conversations we shared will remain unforgettable for me. 

​

To anyone who did not have the privilege of getting to know you in this lifetime: I’d say that Basel was the type of friend that would check up on you and provide you with his two cents when he felt that you were in need of some advice or guidance from a friend. The type of friend that would lift you up with a joke, or an encouraging message when you’re feeling down. The type of friend that would make you feel like “family” and make sure that you knew it. The type of friend that would never let you go down a ski slope alone. 

​

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything, Basel. Thank you for being a real friend. 

​

To end this on a lighter note, here’s what you wrote on my senior year poster:

The only person that’s more pale than me <3 - Basel  

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I miss you so much man and I can’t wait to see you again inshAllah. 

With love and with gratitude, 

Mazen :)

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Lama Kayal

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باسل الغالي اغلب ايام طفولتك كانت معنا ما بنسى اديش كنا نبوسك ونلعب بخدودك الحلوين وكنا نعيطلك بسكوتة اد ما بتتاكل ونضحك معك ونلعب سوا بسلمى مع ولاد خالاتي ونروح مشاوير ونلعب طابة ونتمشى سوا 
ولما كبرت ضلت جواتك الطيبة والبراءة والحنية والمحبة
دائما وجودك يسعدني وحكيك بيفرحني ولما تكون عم تلعب بالبلاي ستيشن وما نشوفك اطلع لعندك كرمال شوفك واتساير معك وتورجيني كيف بتلعب وتشرحلي عن اللعبة وانا ما افهم شي بس افرح انو عم احكي معك بشي بيهمك 
ويوم اللي جيت عخطبتي كنت منور حبيب قلبي بقميصك الابيض والكرافيت كنت اساتك صغير بس طالع شب بتطير العقل وبعدين انا سافرت وضليت تابعك عالسناب شات وحب شوف دائما شو بتنزل وعلقلك وتردلي بسرعة كل عمرك مذوق ولبق وبتحب العيلة وكلنا  منحبك يا أغلى واروع الشباب ❤❤❤

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Heba Kudsy

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فقدناه دون رجعة، لكن ما زلنا متمسكين في ذكرياته في أشيائه الباقية بعده،لأننا نحبه ولم نستطيع تجاوزه.
بالبداية بقول انو قد ما كتبت وقد ما حكيت وقد ماعبرت كله هاد رح يكون جزء صغير عن الغالي باسل 
و بهني نفسي انو باسل ابن خالتي واخي الصغير الغالي يلي كنت انتظر يجي الصيف لينزل اجازة مع عيلته 
الصيف كان بنسبة الي فرح كبيرررررر ما لانو عطلة بس لانو كمان كنا نجتمع مع الاحباب يلي بالغربة..
باسل حبيبي كان صغير وسبحان الله بتذكر انو وقت اجا ع الدنيا كان متل الملاك وعيوني ما كانت تشوف احلا منه لدرجة انو كنت اتمنى ضل جنبو كل لحظة وكبرنا وكبرت فينا الايام بعدين صرنا نطلع ع المصيف نقضي الاجازة مع العائلة وهووون كانت تصير احلا المواقف من ضحك وتسلية والاكلات الطيبة 
مرة بتذكر رحنا نلعب ونتمشى بمصيف اسمه ( سلمى ) وحبينا نعمل مغامرة 
ودخلنا ع بستان كله تفاح وصرنا ناخد تفاح وناكل ونركض وصاحب البستان يضحك علينا وبجد كنا مبسوطين انو حسينا حالنا كبار ومنوصل للشجرة 
وموقف تاني بتذكر وهاد الموقف مستحيل انساه كنت مرة رايحة لعند خالتي بالمواصلات واخدت معي بسولة وكنت لحظتها طايرة من الفرح ماسكة ايدو وعم نتساير وبعدها طلعنا بالباص قام بسولة شلح من رجله واجا بدو يتسطح فكر انو هاد الباص العالم بتنام فيه هههههههه وانا قلو بسولة حبيبي بسرعة البس من رجلك هلأ العالم بتضحك علينا هههههههه بحكم انو بالامارات ماعندن متل هاد الباص ( ميكرو)
وسبحان الله والايام تركض ركض وما حسينا الا وصرنا شباب وصبايا وبعدها انا تزوجت  ع اوروبا وما كنت متخيلة انو نرجع نجتمع مرة تانية وكان من حسن حظي انو رجعنا التقينا وهون انا كنت بقمة السعادة لدرجة انو ماصدقت اديش فرق علي بسولة سبحان الي خلقه قمة الاناقة والطيبة والادب والخجل وفوراً حسيت شريط مر من قدامي وقت كنا صغار والذكريات الحلوة لوقت ما رب العالمين حب انو يكرمه ويطالعو لعندو لانو بيحبه ولانو كان بيستاهل يعيش بالجنة ونعيمها ..
ولا تفكروووووو ابداً انو ماعاد شفتو ؟
بالعكس شفتو كتيررررر بالمنام كان يزورني وبكل مرة كنت شوفو احلا من قبل وكان احلا منام شفتو فيه وقتا كان كله نور على نور وقلي حرفياً : ( هبة انا هون كتيررررررر مبسوط ومرتاح ) ع كتر ما كان عايش بالنعيم بدنيا لسا صدقاً بالله وقت شفته كان ع قوة النور الي بوجهه افرك عيوني 
وهاد يلي مخليني كون قوية كرمال اوصل للي وصله بسولة 
وبالنهاية كل هاد مجرد كتابة شي بسيط عن ذكريات الطفولة يلي مستحيل تمحيها الذاكرة 
وبيكفي انو كل فترة رب العالمين بيكرمني اني شوفو بالمنام 
بسولة حبيبي اشتقتلك كتيرررررررررر
رحم الله أناس فرحت بهم الدنيا حين زينوها، واستقبلتهم الأرض بالبشرى من الرحمن، نسأل الله أن يجعل قبره نزلاً فسيحًا من الجنة

يسكنها إلى حين الموعد الأكبر
 

Aya Hammash

Tantoon asked me long time ago to write something about Basel, I promised her I would but every time I started to write I felt my words would never be enough, no matter what I say I may not be able to express how much we love and miss him. 

​

Baskoteh was full of life and love, I always loved how close he was to his sister, how energetic yet calm he was, how he loved cars so much, loved outdoor activities and how he always remembered me with good movie and series recommendations.

​

Our relationship was built on late night snap series reviews, mischievous stories about us and our friends, and plans on driving or racing somewhere when he gets his license. It was built on the fact I saw him, Osama and Tina grow from beautiful little toddlers who I had so much fun and memories with, to amazing adults who I truly trust and respect deeply.

​

Baskoote left behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and love. Everyone he knew he managed to leave them with a beautiful memory of his.

​

Basel had a beautiful smile and a silent cute laugh I will never forget, Osama, Basel and Tina always felt like my little brothers and sister and they will always have a chunk of my heart. 

​

When I got my license I used to always take Basel and Tina out for pizza and candy l, we would put some music on and raise the volume, tina tries to catch up with the lyrics but when she gets them wrong basel would laugh and giggle in the back, i will never forget our pizza drives and basel’s favorite margarita with olives.

​

When i got a sport car, Basel was the first cousin to ride it, I took them out for a ride and he was so happy and so proud of his cousin and her car preference. And he always promised to race me when he is back from Budapest, he would send me reminders and set dates on snap  chat asking me to be ready for when he comes back.

​

Whenever I saw Basel, I would ask him to wait until I pull a chair so I can step on it and hug Basel because I am so tiny next to my tall little cousin, and that would make them all laugh and giggle in the back but I just love hugging them so much, that I want to do it properly. 

 

Basel came to me in a dream, and in my dream I was sleeping and crying at the same time, he woke me up and he was smiling beautifully, and said: ( don't worry cousin, I am doing great, I am happy .. please know that Tina loves you, and we love you so much) he wiped my tear and said: (I know what you are doing, thank you) he hugged me and I woke up. 

I can go for days writing about baskoote and my closest cousins, about our chats, and our family gatherings, but i am sure my words wont do our memories justice. 

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Basel we love you so much, we will never forget you and your beautiful soul, one family forever❤