I was hesitant to write much about Theodore's death out of respect for his family's privacy. Since his dad is blogging a little of their ordeal, and it's painful to me that we can't fly down there for the funeral, I want to share a few thoughts and memories.
Theodore was born when I was expecting my first baby. Since his dad was in medical school, they often had to split up for Sunday Masses. When his mom was there, alone with little ones, she often let me hold Theodore for Mass. He was such a happy, placid baby. And I was one happy lady holding that cherub.
We watched this adorable child grow into toddlerhood and boyhood. It became evident that he had developmental delays and signs of Autism. Yet, he had a sweet and affectionate nature and quite a sense of humor for someone with his limitations.
As a teen he thrived on his routines but seemed to be fairly comfortable when they stayed at our house. We have plenty of funny 'Theodore stories' from their visits here. He had a horror of bugs and would beg us to "Kill fly please!" and would not rest till he saw the dead bug. Woe to us if we couldn't get the fly. Kevin got smart and began saving dead bugs from windowsills and such so we could show him the proof of the kill and he could rest easy about it.
The best thing about Theodore was this, when you looked into his eyes you saw a pure soul. No sin. No malice. No guile. Nothing but sweetness, trust, hope for his favorite foods, funny thoughts in his own world that we couldn't share, though we could share in his joy and laughter, and you saw piety and purity.
He had a rare and simple soul. Now that he is surely in heaven, and his middle name is Gerard, you can guess what I am begging him to intercede for... another baby of course, and purity for my children. I think he will be a good patron for purity.
We miss you Theodore. Pray for us.
