In Memory

Stephen Mirabella (who will always be Mr. Mirabella to me), you will be missed more than I think you could ever understand. In fifth grade, you changed my life. In fact, I am certain that if it weren't for you, I wouldn't be a creative writing major, I wouldn't be writing a book, and I wouldn't have made it through middle school alive. You are one of the few people I can say truly changed me in a real, tangible way, and for that I am grateful beyond belief.

You taught me more than English. Although I remember vividly your lectures on Richard Cory and The Lord of the Flies, there was always more to your classes. You taught me about life and the lessons we learn all throughout it. You were one of my biggest sources of comfort all those years, and one of the few people outside my family I felt comfortable talking to.

You told us in 6th grade that you were writing a book that would be dedicated to our class. I don't know if you ever did, but the first book I publish will be in your memory. It only seems right, even though you won't know.

You read the first short story I ever wrote, "The Party." I was 17 years old, and we were talking at my graduation party. Even with all my friends and family around, I ran out to the car to get a copy of the story. You were glowing after you read it, and you said, "You write that book." I kind of blushed, but you stopped smiling, looked me square in the eyes and said, "you write that book. You're going to change the world with your writing, and I'll be able to say that 'I knew you when...'"

Thank you, Mr. Mirabella, for everything you have done for me and everyone else who was fortunate enough to know you. I hope one day I can pass on what you taught me.