It does, doesn't it? Even if I know the meaning, that meaning can't overcome the word.

[ Her fingers curl against the fabric on her shoulder. It's not as if death hadn't followed her through life. She should accept its weight regardless. It doesn't mean its presence there is any less uncomfortable. ]

That's a good thing to think about, though. You're right, I would think there must be some connection between those of us with the same symbols. They can't be assigned at random, but by what you're saying, I'm guessing there's no simple line to trace between us.

I'd been wondering something similar... if there was some trait or set of traits that set us apart from those that are residing 'upstairs' that were brought here like we were. I haven't found anything just yet, either.