Really well done, I like your ideas, especially making yourself believe he is dead. You also put it together really well. The ending line is very powerful, and I loved "i’ll smile with a hint of cynicism because/of all the unknowns dragging my lips down". One problem I noticed, there seems to be a word missing in line 8?

i loved this piece. the imagery was beautiful. and i am completely empathetic. much thanks for this wonderful piece.

HaHa. So very true. Nice job. (:

~Unknown Survivor~