Kendall Forbes

Glistening silver streaks weaved around and around like a sparkly snake climbing towards the heavens, while beads of blue and purple were hung loosely amongst the green spikes with clear baubles perched delicately on its tips.
Christmas had arrived at the Williams household, but not everyone was there to celebrate the festive season.
A small ceremony was taking place in the backyard where the children openly wept and the adults’ faces grew red trying to keep their tears hidden.
A small box was placed into the ground with a lone sunflower dropped on top. A short karakia was spoken, the first of the dirt shifted, and a final farewell said.
The twinkling of stars were hidden above the glow of fairy lights as the family eventually moved back inside.
A small dish on the kitchen floor sat empty, but no one made to remove it. Instead they tried to settle into their usual places around the dining table and on the couch. Few words were spoken, none of meaning. But arms of comfort were freely available and taken advantage of.
Finally the children were ushered to bed and the adults had a moment to themselves. Presents were brought out of hiding places, wrapped, and placed under the tree, but one was taken away.
A small and poorly wrapped parcel that jingled when it was moved was put high on a shelf, not to be forgotten, but for now unrequired.