Dear Jean: 

The days pass but the brightness that is my memory of Lydia never fades. I think about her every day and I think about your family and often want to write or call, but the fear of somehow deepening your pain prevents me from contacting you. But this week, as I remember that last year at this time I came to your house to teach Lydia for the first time after her surgery, and tragically, for the last time... I must write you this note to let you know. To let you know once again, how wonderful she was. What a joy to teach her, to know her and to be around her. She was like a bright new penny. I would look forward to the end of my long day in Dayton, to the time I would spend with her in your living room. How much I enjoyed her questions and eagerness to learn. How much I admired her dedication, hard work and enthusiasm. What an honor for a teacher to be given the chance to work with such a talent and intellect. I rejoiced in her special qualities and also in her ability to remain a young girl despite maturity. She had such a winning personality. I really loved her, not only as my student, but also as a beautiful young person. I miss her and I will never forget her.

I know that spiritual life is eternal and I know that your family has very strong faith. I also know that a loss like this changes life in countless ways and that time does not diminish your loss. I hope and pray that whatever strength you need as a family will be granted to you and that your spirits will be lifted up. Her life was truly a blessing.

Love, DN