I could handle looking at him, though I swore not to touch him. I could handle the tears all around me, as we watched the priest bless him. I could handle watching the others take off the cloth that covered him.
But I could not handle the coffin rolling past me on its way out of the church.
I had been so proud, I hadn’t shed a tear since the news, trying to stay strong for everyone. But as they rolled his lifeless body past my pew, I had to struggle to contain my sanity.
Frankie, please. Wake up. Please, bang on the coffin. We’ll let you out. Please Frankie, wake up.
I hurried out of the church, trying to get away from the tears that were escaping my eyes.
But they hurried out of the church with me.
I didn’t want anyone to touch me, I couldn’t bear to show my weakness.
I looked around at my family, & the thought of “Who could possibly be next?” never left my mind.
I looked up at the sky, tears streaming down my face.
“HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO US.”
Rest In Peace, Frank Zocco. You’re missed by us all.