Patty Molloy

Sadly there are a lot of things I don't remember about hight school, but I remember Patty's sparkling eyes and electric smile.  I always loved talking with her, but I'm sure I said stupid stuff. Yes boys growing up... Someday I hope to see you on the other side. 

On this the sad anniversary of Patty Molloy's passing, I am thinking of her fondly. It's easy to remember the first day I saw Patty. She was being introduced midyear into our class. Her desk was in the far row near the windows, morning light streaming in. All the boys loved her. I can recall, too, that year's Valentine's Day when each of us used an old carton to create a slotted box to set on his or her desk; Patty's was filled to overflowing with crimson hearts, mine among them, spilling off the stack. Valentines compounded year-on-year. Had Patty thought to keep hers, she might have realized how many people somehow felt connected, would surely miss her were she suddenly to go. One never knows though. We go into the world without looking back. And when troubles come some are lost. But for others the past can remain--potent, penetrating. Not all is forgotten. I was the silent boy across the room who misses her still. Long live the cherished memory of Patty Molloy.