" There are so many cruel decisions parents have to make when their child dies. The funeral director requested a sheet for the coffin, and I sent the cozy flannel one, pale blue with happy snowmen, that had just been put away with the winter linens. "
- Ann Hood

The quote discusses a parent's difficult decision-making process following the loss of their child, focusing on the poignant moment when they choose which sheet to place inside the coffin. This choice reflects an attempt to provide comfort and familiarity for the deceased child during one of life’s most distressing times.

On a deeper level, this passage highlights the overwhelming grief parents experience and the ways in which they try to find solace or meaning amidst their sorrow. The selection of a cozy flannel sheet with cheerful imagery underscores a parent's desire to create an environment that feels safe and nurturing for their child, even as they face the reality of loss. This act also serves as a bittersweet reminder of happier times and the love shared between parent and child.

The quote is from Ann Hood, an accomplished American author known for her poignant narratives exploring themes of loss, love, and resilience. Her work often delves into personal experiences to create powerful stories that resonate with readers on an emotional level.