… waits for me outside the shop.
She walks over, hands me a brown bag.
Good morning, Etan. Take this.
It’s more tea with different herbs.
Thank you, I say. I hope it works.
Etan, she says, it’s nice to hear your voice again.
I take the bag, and as much as I try, I can’t resist.
When I open it, my insides get tight.
The smell is so strong.
Mrs. Li nods.
It’s okay, Etan.
This tea recipe is my mother’s.
It helped soothe so many of us
on long, cold days at sea.
It may smell funny to you, but it’s strong, I promise you.
I try not to use my nose,
but now the smell is trapped there.
Etan, never forget this.
Mrs. Li folds the bag closed. Your friendship for this girl is the oldest
and strongest form of medicine you can ever give her.
Remind her that she is not alone.