I had one job: to take care of my wife's peace lily while she traveled. I accidentally poisoned the plant by using water treated with water softener. As I saw the flowers slowly wilt, desiccate, and twist their form, I wondered if I had killed domestic peace at the same time. All was forgiven, of course. I was especially moved by these flowers as they illustrate that there is beauty even in death, if you are willing to look for it.