The memorial was so special. To see those kids pour their hearts out in song, in poems, in words. Erika wrote and read this amazing poem. I wish I could have written it. I wish I could written anything. But my pen stayed frozen over the paper. Dirk made a video that completely captured the best of Tha in a few fleeting images. So for my part I lead the moment of silence. And lit the first candle off the one we had his family light. Everyone then came forward. Four-hundred-fifty candles all lit with love can sure fill a room.

After everyone left we blew them out together as a staff. We hugged goodbye and headed home. I want them to know I love them. They matter so much in my life. How I wish I could have Tha back long enough to tell him too.