Lanterns of Remembrance

By the lake, Sarah lit a paper lantern in honor of her brother. They’d always planned

to travel the world together, to see lantern festivals overseas. But life had stolen

her courage after he died. Tonight, she was alone, or so she thought.

A child approached, tugging her sleeve. “Is that for someone you miss?” Sarah nodded.

The child handed her a second lantern. “Then he should have two.” Sarah’s voice broke.

Together they lit both lanterns, releasing them into the night sky. They rose slowly,

glowing like twin stars. For the first time since her brother’s passing,

Sarah felt the weight in her chest loosen. She whispered into the wind, “Save me a seat