The sky and clouds are shades of purple and pink, the sun drifting below the ocean’s horizon. I float on a piece of driftwood, halfway between the shore and a place unseen. I’m past the breakers, the water a gentle lullaby that steadies me. A rope is tied around my ankle and held by my husband on the shore. He and my family stare out anxiously, trying to give me my space to mourn, fighting the urge to forcibly pull me back in.
I know they are watching, but I have eyes only for her as a I stare at that point in the distance. I hope she is happy and playing, not stuck longing for me like I long for her…
I’m barely tethered to my husband and my family, but it’s enough of a weight to keep me from cutting the rope that keeps me from drifting away. I know I have to come back in, but for now, this is the closest I can bring myself without feeling completely parted from her.
Those who can't... 
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