A moving story from me for Substack this afternoon. Hope you enjoy The Newsletter.

The Newsletter by Allison Symes

‘Joe, Marjorie’s annual newsletter is early.’ Janet waved an envelope.

‘Maybe, Janet, there’s so much to share, she’s splitting the newsletter in two.’

‘Her grandchildren are brilliant. We…’.

Joe put an arm around Janet. ‘Stand at the grave of our son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Have you mentioned the accident?’

‘That drunk driver…’

‘I know, darling. Have you told Marjorie?’

‘No.’

‘Do so when we get home. She might become less boastful.’

‘She avoids “difficult” so…’

‘You are worth a million Marjories. If she stops sending, isn’t that a win?’

For the first time all year since the accident, Janet smiled.

Ends

Allison Symes - 2nd August 2026