Teen's Advocacy, Poetry Touched Many Hearts (WaPo; registration)
Mattie and his mom are Catholic. I have so much respect for them for their bravery in the face of the sorrows that have affected their family, and for their living witness to the value of every life.
What an amazing, positive, a big hearted kid he was! I was so sad to hear he had passed.
I concur Patty, but what is an even bigger testament here is that in a different situation, someone would argue his life was too difficult and that his mother shouldnt have had him. Yet look what society gained from this frail little boys infectious smile and shining optimism. his life was indeed cut too short, but we are all richer for having been able to have him in the world.
Not trying to turn this into a pro-life discussion, but just thought I'd point that out.
I agree, Steve. This was a child who absolutely understood the value of life, despite all of the hardships he had endured! Makes me feel sort of guilty for not being more appreciative or for complaining about trivial things. I could stand to learn many a lesson from this dear child.