A dedication for Tori's two year mark.
Today marks 2 years since your passing. I still can't believe it.
When I think of you, I am often reminded of a candle. A candle has many wonderful qualities. It is warm, inviting, vibrant, bright. But perhaps the most important characteristic of a candle is its ultimate purpose; to provide light-- just like you did for so many lives.
A candle flickers in the breeze. It flickers at this sign of danger, because there is a chance that the flame may be extinguished. A fire needs oxygen to survive, but if there is too much movement of air-- that is to say, too much excitement-- the light may go out.
But not yours. While many may remain cautious and fearful of the breeze, I'd like to think that your flame was not flickering, but dancing and enjoying the excitement. Because that's how you were; always smiling, always having fun. Enjoying the adventure of whatever may come.
Some believe that, with the wind of death, the precious light of that candle is extinguished and lost forever. But that was not the case with you. You were different. I know, because I see the light of your life continue to shine and bring so much to the lives of others. Even still.
The flame may flicker, but it will never go out completely, so long as those you loved keep your memory alive in their hearts.
Shine on, Tori.
These pieces ran in the newspaper the week of Tori's 2 year mark. The first is a message from family, and the second is from her friends. Click the images to see a larger version.
The following poem was on the card that I sent to Tori's family for the occasion. I chose this particular card because it reminded me of Tori's senior quote: "As a well-spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well used brings happy death". A scan of the card may be found here.
A life well-lived is a precious gift
Of hope and strength and grace
From someone who has made our world
A brighter, better place.
It's filled with moments sweet and sad,
With smiles and sometimes tears,
With friendships formed and good times shared
And laughter through the years.
A life well-lived is a legacy
Of joy and pride and pleasure,
A loving, lasting memory
Our grateful hearts will treasure.