Nine

[Mommy]

Dearest Michael,

I was busy all day today, the ninth anniversary of your heaven date, but you were never out of my heart or far from my mind. I woke up this morning and tried to remember the time difference in Bejing...the details always so important. But I don't remember exactly, so I decided to let that one go. Maybe that is a sign that I am moving on. Or just getting older. But you aren't. The photo of the boyish face looking back at me behind the burning candle will always be 26 years old...or 26 years young...looking shyly at the camera with all the hope and dreams registered clearly in the eyes, your eyes. I can only imagine the life you didn't get to live, while I marvel at the life you did live. You touched so many in positive and endearing ways. We are still hearing new and wonderful stories and each one brings you back to life in my mind. I just miss you so much and I love you to the moon and back. Forever. Mommy