The only person I wanted to talk to about Augustus Waters dying was Augustus Waters.
My parents and I went to Augustus’s funeral, which was held in the sanctuary next to the Literal heart of Jesus where support group meets. I removed my cannula and walked up to Augustus’s casket. His face looked plastic and he was wearing the same suit he wore when we went to Oranjee. I said, okay. I knew he’d know what I meant. Then I snuck a pack of Camel Lights into the casket and I whispered to him that he could light them. I wouldn’t mind.
The minister talked about Augustus’s courage, Isaac gave his eulogy and then it was my turn. I started with a quote that hung in Augustus’ house, “Without pain, we couldn’t know joy.” It was one of the most difficult days of my life.
