Following Smoke

By Jim Byrnes

The smoke from the funeral pyre is mesmerizing as it travels a circuitous upward path, seeking its vanishing point.

Many people encircle the fire as they pay their last respects and say their goodbyes.

I briefly focus on my daughter as I put names to nearly all of the faces swaying around the dancing, warming flames. Most wear radiant smiles and are graced by a few tears. The scene is celebratory, not about mourning the loss of a life, but rather a loving remembrance of a life well lived.

I feel great happiness as I am released from my earthly bounds.