Screaming Grief
This piece talks about grief, religion, health complications for a loved one, and death. As I grow older, I gain new experiences, new loves, new dislikes, and opinions, and I’ve lived a thousand lives since the last time I had been back home in upper Appalachia. My hair was still a crimson, fiery and reflective in the bright autumnal sun as I visited my first set of paternal grandparents. I have two due to a divorce. There was a silent understanding as the family gathered around the table for a hot meal as the sun settled down over the rolling hills in the west. The golden lab, Max, was checking out the table, lingering near me as I overheard my grandmother as she held onto my mom while coming in from the porch balcony. “I’m ready to die. I’ve had a good life.” The understanding grew heavier, somber, and I could only remember thinking, “I wish you have the mercy of going on your own terms.” Unfortunately, Life has a sick sense of humor, and the family must wa...