The daughter-in-law died in childbirth — Eight men were unable to lift the coffin, and when the mother-in-law demanded to open it…
The mournful sound of funeral trumpets echoed through the narrow alleys, mingling with the gentle rain that fell on a rusty tin roof. In the center of the courtyard, a coffin painted gold rested on two wooden benches. Mourners filled the room, all with their heads bowed, weeping for Isela — the sweet, loving daughter-in-law who died in childbirth.
Isela was only 25 years old. Since she married into the Ramirez family, she was always dedicated, taking care of her in-laws as if they were her own parents. Her mother-in-law, Doña Carmen Ramírez, used to proudly say, “A home with a daughter-in-law like Isela is a blessed home.” But a little more than a year after the marriage, tragedy struck.
That fateful night, Isela was writhing in pain, holding her swollen belly, crying desperately. By the time she was taken to the hospital, it was too late. The baby never managed to give his first cry. And Isela… He never opened his eyes again.
The family was devastated. Carmen collapsed in pain, screaming inconsolably. Her husband, Don Rogelio, remained motionless, staring at the photo of Isela placed on the coffin. In the image, Isela was smiling radiantly, her eyes full of life.
When it was time to move the coffin, eight strong young men came forward to carry it to the hearse. But something wasn’t right.
Despite its strength, the coffin did not move. They strained, growled, tense muscles—but the coffin seemed to be anchored to the ground, as if something invisible was holding it. An old woman among those present murmured:
“He’s still sad… she’s not ready to leave.”
The officiating priest spoke in a low voice:
“Open the coffin. She still has something to say.”
