Explaining Death to children is not an easy task, but need not be a daunting one.
This isn't so much a poem as a memory. My children were ages 11, 8 and 5 when their Grandpa passed away.


Where Will Grandpa Go ?

"The doctor says it won't be long now"...
"Where will Grandpa go ?"
"What do you mean ?"
"His mind...where will his mind go ?"

"Hmmmm...
Well some people believe that
When a person leaves...they go on a journey
The body stays behind
Because the spirit or soul
No longer needs it"

"It's really up to each person
What exactly they believe in
When it comes to "death"
When your Grandma and Grandpa on my side died
I preferred to think that they were free to travel
Wherever they wanted...
I'm pretty certain when each of you was born
They were somewhere up above looking down
And in their own way...being joyful
I could feel them nearby"

"I think that Grandpa might start by going back to Scotland
Maybe he'll visit the Highlands for awhile...
What do you think ?"

"Hmmm...what about Westport ? "(a former residence much loved)
"Ohhh yes...I think you're right about that !
Maybe that's why I've been thinking about it so much lately...
I think we need to plant a garden !"

Grandpa began his journey
Not long after this conversation between my daughter and I...
There were many tears, all around
Because we loved him so
My daughters gently kissed and hugged him
To wish him on his way

I don't believe in sheltering my kids from life
I believe in being honest with them and openly discussing
Things that might be on their minds
They have experienced death...
And know that it is part of life
They know that is is not something to fear...
But just the next step in the journey




Poetry by Dee Daffodil
Read 835 times
Written on 2009-04-06 at 19:41

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There is much beauty, warmth and wisdom in this text!
2009-04-07


Eli The PoetBay support member heart!
The candidness with your daughters will create less confusion as it shines more light on planet. Thank You.
2009-04-07


Purple Phoenix
This is very touching Dee, I am preparing my son in the same manner, my grandfather is nearing the end. It's comforting to know I'm not alone in the honest approach. Hugs to you. :-)
2009-04-07



I couldn't agree more. Because everyone is afraid to talk about death and dying, we live in a society where everyone is terrified of getting old and dying. It's great that you approach the subject with such honesty and caring with your children. I hear that the book Charlotte's Web is great for teaching children about death.

William
2009-04-06


Elle The PoetBay support member heart!
Here, here - life and death has to be accepted and you know, I think children get it better than us adults - A really wonderful write, thank you

Elle x
2009-04-06