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‘You will be remembered, as all of those gone will be.’

April 21, 2007

BLACKSBURG — The words were for the living. And for the dead.

On 16 whiteboards, each the size of a dinner table, a school and a community pour out their hearts. Wearing their orange and maroon, walkers on Virginia Tech's drillfield pause. They stand in silence, except for sobs that burst forth from time to time.

There are flowers. Teddy bears. A computer printed image of a slain professor, taped to an orange Hokies T-shirt.

And words.

For the living: mutual promises to prevail. Expressions of faith. Pride in the courage and affection that helps survivors continue. For the dead: words of gratitude, and of loss.

Here are some:

"The whole world sees the fullness of your lives, and marvels at your talents, your diversity and your humanity."

"We will get through. We are the Hokies."

"Dr. Librescu. I don't know how I will ever thank you for saving my friends' lives."

"The world cries with them. VT 4-16-07."

"Stack, for all the children's lives you touched, you will be remembered, as all of those gone will be."

"Madame Couture, I am grateful for your beautiful life … a demàin" (translation: until tomorrow)

"Nicole, You always made me laugh. I thank you for that."

"Dr. Granata, your memory will live on forever."

"My dearest Max, you will be missed more than you could ever know. I am so proud of everything you were able to accomplish in your life . . . and it's not fair that you aren't here."

"Reema. I will forever miss your smiling face."

"So young and bright and so brave. Your lives will never be forgotten."

"Caitlin. Always remember, always our sister."

"RIP friends."

"Lauren, I will miss your smile. I will miss your laugh . . . I love you. Watch over us."

"Hokie Love. Together, we will make it."

"We will miss you."

"I can only imagine what it will be like when I walk by your side. Forever Hokie Love."

"Peace will come."

"Remember. Love will always be stronger."