Thoughts of Vaiva

Jim, I am so sorry for your loss of Vaiva, so early. I was stunned to receive the news today from Gail. It came as a shock, since I don’t remember receiving your messages about the reunion last year (but I was ill at the time).

My memories of Vaiva are from the beforetimes. The last time I saw her was when your family was still fairly young, and my strongest memories are from college. So she will always be to me that beautiful, exotic, blindingly intelligent girl-woman with whom you fell in love in the yellow house on St. Paul. Coming from a comparatively simple western background, to me her complexities were both fascinating and frustrating. But her huge heart, seeking mind and deep passions were always crystal clear.

I am proud to have known such a strong and effective woman, and proud to have known your family in its early days. Proud to know a husband and father as strong and loving as you have been, Jim.

Your blog is very very touching. I see that she remained herself until the very end, which is a blessing.

I light a candle tonight for Vaiva and stare into it, letting her memory play in my mind as the flame fills my sight. I hear her voice. May she walk always with you, with everyone in your family, and may your life after her be as full and loving as that you had with her.

Take good care,

pat

p.s. I’m fine if you don’t post this, since so few among your present sphere know me.

--------------------------

Pat Cauduro

patcc@earthlink.net

+1.503.502.2413 (mobile)