The Night When No Words Come
This is a story for anyone who, after attending a funeral, puts down their phone while trying to choose one thing to say in the group chat.
Scenes
- I can’t reply after attending the funeral — Sitting in the parking lot with your phone in hand, you’re choosing one thing to leave in the group chat.
- Worried a short reply might seem cold — Even “I’m okay” or a long message of comfort feels too big right now. Only the unsent sentence keeps growing.
- I type “Did you get home okay?” then delete it — Around ten at night, sitting in the car, you see the message, “Thanks for coming today.” You type “Did you get home okay?” then delete it.
- You get stuck trying to fit everything into one sentence — After a funeral, facts, feelings, and requests can all rise at once. If you shut it down with “I’m fine” or explain at length, the other person may also lose sight of what to offer.
- Separate the facts from the time you need — “I went to the funeral today. I can’t give a long reply right now.” That much is enough to make room for the conversation to continue.
- A late reply doesn’t mean the conversation is over — Some nights, the first line doesn’t come right away. Difficult requests or old hurt can also be looked at together by separating the facts from the requests.
Stories by Baekho
- Baekho
- Once I’ve put my child to bed, everything I need to do tomorrow comes rushing to mind.
- On the first night after the move, Mom objected.
- When the meeting ends, “I’m fine” is the first thing I say.
- I want to say how it was, not just “It was totally fine.”
- After the holiday, I count what I’ll earn after quitting at the table.
- Even on a night away alone, I keep thinking about my team member’s performance.
- They say it’s a joke, but even after the funeral, I can’t just let it go.
- Asking why in front of the mirror