I spit toothpaste in the sink and dial a digit at a time. Numbers tied to pigtails and “can I come to stay?” Those not used enough while crossing college lawns. When adulthood came, the ones I called each morning. Ten-digits etched on my heart ring a final time today.

Jozzie Stuchell Velesig is a Harvard-trained writer and founding member of the Story Street Writers. For more information, visit jozziewrites.com or storystreetwriters.com.