GINGER

TO: GINGER

They brought your ashes back this afternoon in a box that fit between my palms. I understood what I was collecting, but my mind still said: that can't be Ginger. You used to occupy the whole house, especially the kitchen when breakfast was late. Your paw print came with a small lock of fur, and touching it undid me. I placed you by your photograph and the battered mouse you refused to give up. I'm relieved you're here again, though not in the way I kept wishing for. Welcome home, Ginger. I'm sorry the return had to look like this.

FROM: Ginger’s parents