Dear Kamion,  

I remember when you returned to school after Lucy died —
the air charged with gossip and suspicion.
Some whispered accident.  Others screamed murder.
You walked the halls in a zombie trance.
Some labeled it mourning.  Others named it guilt.
You didn’t speak to a single person.
Some recognized your shock.  Others viewed your silence as pride.
You decided to finish your credits at home.
Some saw depression.  Others marked cowardice.   

A week ago, we celebrated your graduation.
Some sang triumph. Others plotted retaliation.
Early this morning, a gunshot took your life.
Some grieve for suicide.  Others give praise for justice.
I hope –
whichever side of the story is truth — 
the ending for you is peace.  

With love,
Your Teacher