Beautiful Disaster

Last Goodbyes

Back in the car, I head on the highway towards my hometown with a heavy chest. My exit approaches and I veer off in it's direction. The familiar surroundings bring on wave upon wave of nostalgia. Many things have changed since I had left.

As I approach my parent's house, there is no unfamiliar vehicle, no strange visitor, and no happy reunion. Dressed in her best my mom adjusts my father's tie in the living room as I open the door and let myself in.
My parents rush over in a warm embrace.

I get into my best formal gear and we make our way downtown. This time we didn't stop by any cafe, but to the familiar white house that we had visit many friends and relatives in at some point.

Music wafted through the door, as we opened out. Family members greeted us with love. There were only a few people I didn't recognise, most I knew from either family, school, or around town.
The casket was beautiful. A white and silver one with a flag folded on top. Hesitantly, I made my approach.

He looked good dressed up in uniform a little bit on the rough side but still very good. I reached over and stroked his cheek. My tears welled up as my mind came to grips that the man in front of me was gone. I looked at the embroidered name on the open lid.

"Devin Walker"

From my jacket pocket I retrieved a polished rock that was special to both of us and placed it in his hands. As I said my last goodbyes, I made my way to a table that had his obituary. Reading it, I discovered he had been a hero, sacrificing himself for the lives of others. I made my way to my seat.

Under my breath, you could almost hear me singing:
"Oh 'cause I don't know
I don't know what he's after
But he's so beautiful
Such a beautiful disaster
And if I could hold on
Through the tears and the laughter
Would it be beautiful
Or just a beautiful disaster"