I got the idea to call my dead sister’s cell phone from the movie P.S. I Love You. In the film, a woman calls her dead husband’s cell phone over and over.
It was the saddest thing I’d ever seen.
When my sister Melissa died, I called her constantly.
I sobbed when she didn’t answer.
I sobbed listening to her voicemail and I obsessed.
I pulled my family into it.
It was a little funny.
During one of my routine calls to Melissa, something weird happened.
Something that barged in on my pity party.
Something that introduced me to Jeff.
I hung up on him.
My beloved calling routine was taken from me by Jeff, aided by the dicks over at Verizon.
As pack leader, it was my job to ensure my younger brother and sister knew how to react.
Fueled by “coping-with-depression-via-alcohol,” I made another call.
I gauged his reaction to a drunk dial.
He seemed game.
Jeff and I connected immediately.
But I had the right number. And it was Jeff’s.
We had a beautiful summer together.
I couldn’t wait to get him on the line for a rip-roaring chat.
Classic Jeff.
I don’t remember much of our conversations.
What I do remember is the excitement when Jeff answered the phone.
If my life was a movie, Jeff getting Melissa’s phone number would have been one of those silver-lining things you hear about when people die. Like Jeff and I were supposed to meet. And Melissa dying was the only way that could happen.
A few months into my new routine with Jeff, I got a text from an unknown number.
My life isn’t exactly like a sad movie.
Author’s Note: This story was originally posted in 2017. I’m including this story in my book (Death, Depression, and Diarrhea). I’m sharing it with you so you can get a sneak peek of the redrawn art!
Love it! Also, the art is great, no need to obsess about it. Can’t wait for the book ❤️
But I’m so very good at obsessing! 😉
Thanks for commenting. I appreciate your reading and I’m happy you enjoyed the story.
Can’t wait to read the whole book. The stories are great and very relatable.
Keep up the good work Sarah!!!
Well hey there, Dad! Thanks for the support!
Hey Sarah! How many times did you call Jeff? Everyone needs a Jeff in their life!
Great story and graphics! Can’t wait to read the book!
Haha. Everyone does need a Jeff. I called enough to get his attention, that’s for sure.
Thanks for reading, and being excited about the book!
Ahmazing. Per usual. ❤️ You
Jess!! Thankyouthankyouthankyou. Love you right back.
Great work! Can’t wait to get a copy and see all your wonderful drawings!
Thank you, Nana! I appreciate your enthusiasm. I’m very excited to share the stories with you.
I always loved the Jeff story. I used to call Papa’s phone but the battery had died.
Keep up the good work.
Thank you, Gram. I love you!
This story is so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time! In an age where no one knows anyone’s number anymore, I still remember my Dad’s. I never called it after he passed, but for some reason, I recite it so I don’t forget it. 🥺
Anita–thank you! It’s interesting to have those moments of remembering. Thank you for writing about your Dad. Your Dad’s number will always be your Dad’s number, no matter who now “has” it. There’s something intimate about memorizing someone’s number… it’s like declaring, in a world where there’s an infinite amount of knowledge to be consumed, I will hold space for you.
I love your art and look forward to reading your book. What a huge accomplishment that you can be very proud of! I wish you every success!
Mary! Thank you! I appreciate your support, and am excited you’re excited.