Her Satin Head Scarf
The satin head scarf was the only thing I could remember her wearing before she headed into the hospital, that last time, two weeks ago. I had it neatly packed in a box of her things, never again worn, until today.
I slowly unfolded the unseen scarf, smelling it, hoping to recognise the scent of her—it was gone. I ran my fingers down its length and the cherished memories came back into focus. Those dimples, her laugh, that smile.
I’m wearing her scarf on my freshly shaved head, with this black dress. My sister would have loved it.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleSenses tell the story here. A brief but penetrating glimpse into grief and love.
This is a lovely story told with deep tenderness. For those of us who have experienced this type of loss, everything here rings true. Very well done!
Thank you for your comment, Preston! I am from Nova Scotia, it’s a province with one of the highest rates of cancer. My dad passed away from it two years ago next month, and I’m on a low-dose chemo as we speak. I think a lot of us have been touched by it in one way or another!
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleSo sorry about your dad, Melissa. And I’m sending you healing vibes and best wishes for your own recovery. ?
I appreciate this Preston, thanks so much!
So sad and tender, Melissa.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleThanks for your comment, Margarida. When talking about cancer I could see no other way but to do it delicately.
An emotional read, Melissa. Sadder still, that while grieving for her sister, she too is suffering from this terrible disease. The scarf, a touching memory and a comfort at her sister’s funeral. I love the last line, a loving glimpse into their relationship. Lovely writing.
Thank you, Linda. I believe she shaved her head in an act of solidarity– to be closer to her sister once more. Grieving in her own way possibly. I’d like to think she is going to keep up the fight, one of which her sister lost ❤ . I always appreciate your comments, thanks once again.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleYour explanation makes that last sentence even more meaningful, Melissa.
Beautifully written, Melissa. I have the T-shirt my brother wore the day before he passed away 30 years ago (not cancer though) and I hope he’s pleased I’ve kept it. Like the scarf, it brings comfort and strength.
Very sorry to read about your father and thinking of you in your fight ? Do you have something special from your father, too?
Thank you for your comment, Sandra. Indeed I do! I have a buttoned up Levi’s shirt of his, which is far too big for me. That was his favorite clothing brand. It’s the first thing my eyes see when I wake up in the morning. Fight is what I’ll always do. ? I’m sorry to hear of your loss, and I feel blessed that you shared a small bit of your… Read more »
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleWhat a great read, Melissa. I have the t-shirt, the hat of my late father that he wore when he was alive, and I never washed it. When I smell it – I feel a relief from pain. Such a satisfying read. Well done.
Thanks for sharing that with me, Lotchie. I’m glad you have something of his, and it gives you comfort. I’m glad you enjoyed the story.
You’re welcome, Melissa.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleHi Melissa, sorry, I’ve been wanting to comment on your story for several days now, but have been completely wiped out by Covid for the last 9 days. Your story is both touching and heartbreaking at the same time and it’s easy to tell that it’s written from the heart. I was especially saddened to hear that you are having to undergo chemo yourself, no matter how low the dose, I can’t… Read more »
Hey, Carrie. I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been sick! Covid is rough, I experienced this firsthand myself. The low-dose has its side effects but I don’t like to complain. I imagine others have it much worse. Thanks for your comments on the story. Thanks even more for the virtual hug— I’m sending one back!
I’ve just seen about Hurricane Fiona causing major problems in Nova Scotia. Hope all is well with you
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleA lot of devastation in Cape Breton, Carrie. Houses swept out into the water, trees down, power is still out in many places. I’ve checked up on everyone and they seem to be doing well. I really feel for those that cannot afford to replace what they once had.
This is an emotional one. It strikes a chord within. Good job, Melissa. I just read about your loss and what you’re currently going through. Please, accept my condolences and hearty wishes.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Thompson. Your comment is greatly appreciated.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleI love the understated style in this emotional piece of writing, Melissa. The scarf is in the center of attention, but from this simple piece of clothing the reader gets to know quite a lot about the circumstances and the two women. The story also brings up memories from my own past in a bittersweet way. You are a great writer, Melissa, and I’m always looking forward to reading your stories. I… Read more »
I’m glad you enjoyed the story, Christer. I think the relationship the two sisters had was quite a special one. Grief is something everyone responds to differently, it was something I wanted to showcase in this micro. Thank you for your kind wishes as well. I haven’t been as active on the site because the medication has made me quite sickly some days. I feel bad for not being as present. I’m… Read more »
This is an outstanding story, Melissa. Using the head scarf almost as a character, you are able to express intense emotions in an understated manner that has a more devastating effect than any drama would. Your writing is reaching new levels of excellence. I look forward to more from you!
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleThank you, Fuji! This comment was overwhelming! My own father passed away from cancer, and I still have an overshirt of his here, that I see first thing every morning. It is interesting that you mention that the scarf took on a character–I think that’s the way it tends to go. We no longer have them, so we put their spirit into a material object as a source of comfort.
Congratulations! Melissa. A touching story.
Thank you, Thompson!
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