A Letter from Wendi’s Classmate

A few weeks ago, I received an email from a classmate of Wendi’s from the 9th grade. She said she just happened to find Wendi’s website and it brought back so many memories of her. I want to share what she wrote to me.

Hello Linda,

All those years ago Wendi’s kindness brought some joy to me at school. Middle school was a very rough time for me emotionally. I was among those who were often picked on and in truth there are not many classmates I remember with any fondness whatsoever. Wendi is one of the few I do miss. Many times, her kind words or friendly smiles lifted my spirits, whether while working on class assignments or sharing a lunch table and just talking about all the things kids talk about. I believe all who knew Wendi became better people for having known her. She always exhibited a grace well beyond her years.
My life now? I still live in Pittsburgh, though I had many opportunities to travel during my university days. I am a single mother to a boy, Erich, who will be 13 in April. For the past several years, I have been a Harry Potter fanatic, even going to midnight book releases in costume. My son joins me, also in costume. Last year, for the first time, we both volunteered at the Pittsburgh Zoo Boo, dressed as Potter characters.
The web site is a wonderful tribute to a sweet girl who positively touched so many lives in the short time she had. I will always be grateful to her for showing me kindness at a time so few did and have always tried to follow her example throughout my life. I will carry her memory with me always.

In friendship and love
Wendi’s classmate
Linda