Footnotes of You

They still share the stories that you shared

They still use your jokes to make others laugh

They still remember your advice

And still encouraged by it

For your words still ring in their ears

~

The warmth of your hug still lingers

That pat on the back still inspires them

That smile still encourages them

Your love left a mark

Because, whether intentional or not

They carry some parts of you in their lives

As you do to them

~

Your presence made a difference

~

In the way they think

In the way they view the world

In the way they act

And in the way they live.

Someone is still watching the movies you showed them

Someone is still playing the songs you played for them.

Someone is still cooking the way that you taught them.

Someone is still diving into the books that you suggested.

You may think you were just there for a season in their lives

Just a phase, a year, or even a moment

But in that fleeting moment

You love them for who they are

~

Through your stories, your jokes — your words

Through your embrace, your smile — your actions

Through your silence — your presence

~

You encouraged them

You inspired them

You showed them how to love

By being you.

~

You may think you’re just a memory

But to them, you’re part of their story

A chapter they memorized the number

With phrases underlined

And echoes in their mind.