At the moment of death

I breathe deeply and focus

on a light above

the assembled bodies

and deliver you

into the afterlife.

 

Your cloth is cut,

the cord is severed,

 

eyes are closed

and stubble shaven.

 

Flannel wipes the spittle

from your chin. 

 

Every orifice is plugged;

as much mystery

 

as I can muster

remains concealed within.

 

Sprinkle scent,

spread the shroud.

 

Count the mourners

bearing flowers.

 

You disappear beneath

the weight of others,

give or take

the occasional bump.

I'm already pregnant

once again.