Saving CeeCee Honeycutt

by Beth Hoffman

A ballet of nimble-footed waitresses moved among the tables, taking

One day you’ll do something, see something, or get an idea that seems to pop up from nowhere. And you’ll feel a kind of stirring—like a warm flicker inside your chest. When that happens, whatever you do, don’t ignore it. Open your mind and explore the idea. Fan your flame. And when you do, you’ll have found it.”

I stared at the room full of caskets on display—their lids gaping open like hungry mouths, waiting to swallow up the newly departed. I decided I’d much rather exit this world in a crackle of

flames and a swirl of smoke through my ribs than be cooped up for all eternity in a dark box surrounded by puffy white satin.