:: For Troy ::

It's hard to believe that you're gone. It seems like just yesterday you were telling me about your student whose "belly done swoll." You got me through the toughest year of my life, and I am forever grateful. I don't know what I would've done without you. You took me under your wing, and I felt safe there. I always knew that you were there to support me. You challenged me to think deeper, especially when times got hard. You're a true inspiration to everyone - your students and colleagues love you and respect you. You were in every way a true friend to me, and you will always have a place in my heart. I know I can't call you anymore about oxtails at WholeFoods or to tell you about silly things that's happened that week with my students, but please know that you will be thought of everyday. I know you're at a better place now.