Marlene and Her Mother

Marlene, I’m okay.

Mother?

Yes.

Where are you?

I’m alright.  Don’t worry.

I am worried.  I’m so sorry.

Well…it’s okay for now.  But I’m alright.

I hope so.  I’m so sorry for everything.  I just wished I’d been a better daughter.

Well, you did what you could.

But it wasn’t enough.

You did what you could.

So…how is it?  Over there?

Here on the other side?

Yes.

It’s wonderful!  It’s so much better than even I expected.

How…how so?

I can’t describe it.

Just give me an idea…if you can.

Why are you so curious about this?

I just am!  I mean…who wouldn’t be?

Well…it’s like you’re so eager to join me.

Well…no – not yet.

Not yet?  Really?

Well…please tell me something about it.  What it’s like.

I can’t help but laugh.  You have everything you wanted now.  The house, the furniture, my jewelry…everything.

I know.  I just realize how…rough it’s been.

Rough?  For you?

Um…yes.

Interesting to hear you say that.

I’m sorry, Mother.  I really am.

Are you?

Yes.

Why?  Why do you say that now?

I…I…I just…do.  I don’t know why.

You don’t know why?

Well…I…I guess…

What?

I was just wondering…how you felt.

About…?

This…everything.

You got everything you wanted – all of it.

I know.

And you wanted to know what it’s like here?  On this side?

Yes.

I know everything.  But I wanted to hear you say it.

Please forgive me.

Oh yes.  I can forgive you.

You can?

Of course.  I regret nothing.  I want nothing.  Unlike you.

I’m sorry.

Why?  Why are you saying it like that?

I just…do…just…sorry.

Why?  This is all because of you.

I…I…can’t…

Why are you at a loss?

I…I…just…I just am.

You know what happened.  I regret nothing.  My mind is clear.

I know.

So tell me – why do you want to know so badly what it’s like here on the other side?  After all…you’re the one who sent me here.