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December 11, 1987-November 13, 2002

I did not know Danny personally, I am sad to say. But in a town as small as mine, you tend to know people at least by sight, and I remember him, and i remember him constantly smiling, I remember him being so friendly. Everyone loved him. It's funny that I never knew him. I knew some of his best friends, but I never knew him. I didn't speak with those friends much, but I've known one of them for over 12 years now. It's so odd to think about. But from hearing them all speak about him, I know I would have loved him. One friend, Eli Rhodes, wrote a song for him called "Lay Your Armor Down" If I had the lyrics I would post them, but I don't, so...if you want to listen to it: www.myspace.com/mourningmorgan.
I remember the awards day that would have been his. His seat remained open. It remained open at graduation. A cap, gown, and tassel remained in the seat, reminded everyone of the one they had lost, as if any of them could forget. At awards day, his mother and brother were presented with a rose and tassel, and I remember hearing nothing but sobs from the entire Class of 2006 as they received the awards, and a standing ovation from the entire school.
I didn't know him well, but he should be honored all the same, and I turn to a poem written by my beloved 7th grade English teacher, who knew Danny well.

Danny's Smile

Oh, I remember that smile!
Mischievous, impish,
Perpetually fixed upon your face,
Brightening the world,
Creating an aura of happiness
Like a glowing rainbow of beautiful colors,
You lifted my spirits,

Oh, I remember that smile!
Charming, infectious,
Twinkling in your eyes,
Drawing us all to you,
Attracting us with your charisma
Like a magnet with an incredible force,
You touched my heart.

Oh, I remember that smile!
Courageous, enduring,
Remaining fixed despite the pain.
Poignantly confirming your bravery.
Comforting our sorrowing hearts
Like an unbreakable stone,
You inspired me.

As I remember that smile,
I catch myself in an unexpected grin.
Even now, it shines
Chasing away the gloom within me
Darkened by the sadness of your passing.
For I know that through it all
You smile down upon us
Gracing us with the strength to go on.
~Frankie Latham

TomorrowsQueen