Thomas, it's taken a while for me to gather the courage to write this, but I have things I just need to say, and I think they're ready to come out now. I didn't know you as well as I wanted to. After all, we only just met this past summer. But how long you know someone doesn't determine how much you love them. You were my friend, Thomas, and no matter how long you're gone I will always love you, and I will always miss you. You brought light into the lives of everyone who ever met you. Some days I walked into Nehemiah rehearsal feeling like no one wanted me around, but you wouldn't let me believe that. Every smile, every hug, every word that you spoke was full of light, and life, and love. I wish that you didn't feel like you'd be better off dead, and I've thought endlessly of the ways I could have stopped you or changed your mind. I ask myself why. Why would you leave us? But all of these questions are useless. There is an enemy of our souls who fills our heads with lies and deceit, and I believe that you grappled with him every day. I guess the truth is, you're having a much better time in heaven than you ever did on earth, so we don't grieve because you're sad. You aren't sad anymore, you don't have to deal with any of this world's darkness, because you're up there with Jesus, and I bet He's loving your magic tricks! We grieve because we miss you. Teeto, you brought so much beauty to this earth with your beautiful soul. I guess what I'm trying to say is thank you. Thank you for your life, and for being a part of my life. You have inspired me to love more deeply, to always show kindness to everyone I meet, and to make everyone feel like they are important 100% of the time. I guess this is just a random collection of thoughts, messy and weird but I think you understand. I know you're having the time of your life up there and I'm so glad, because you deserve it. Do you see the pink in my hair? It's for you. :) Goodbye. I'll see you again one day, when God calls me home.
~Love, Katie Stone~
