Ghostwriter
The call came in at 4:21 am. I knew as soon as I heard the phone it was my grandson. I knew that he was under his bed, pushing up on the springs with his feet and trying to figure out something that was bothering his sweet soul.
He simply asked, “Why do people have to die?”
“These bodies we have were not made to live forever. They get worn out, broken and need to put away, sometimes that is why people die. Sometimes people die because they are tired and troubled and they need to have a rest from taking care of their body. Their spirit, the part of them you know and love is very much still alive. It never dies because it can be “worn out”, it’s eternal and that means it lives forever in some form.”
“Will I see Grandad again?”
“I am not sure if you will see him again. I don’t know all the technical stuff and plans. I do know that I often feel my Mom and I know her spirit is near.”
“So when I feel like Papa is watching me that’s okay?”
“That is so much better than okay, that is totally awesome. I hope Papa comes to visit often.
“But I have not felt Grandad yet.”
“I would guess it takes a little time for him to get used to his new self. I hope he is with Granny and they are busy getting caught up. I believe that if you keep your heart and mind open, you will feel them when you need them.”
“I am not sure I believe the same thing. I just know that sometimes I feel like Papa is watching me.”
“It’s all good and never be scared when you feel like someone who loves you is close. That’s the best gift ever.”
“Hey, I bet everyone else in your house is asleep. Now would be a great time to get a bowl of cereal and get your reading pages done that you missed last night.”
“How did you know I missed it?”
“Lucky guess, love you and I have to go!”
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Question of
Were my answers acceptable in your opinion?
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Yes
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No
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Question of
Am I duty bound to tell his parents about the conversation?
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Yes
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No
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what a conversation.
(you have to tell his parents, not from a negative but from a positive. The questions he asked are well beyond his years)!
it is a question we all wrestle with over time.
I actually told his parents right after it happened. I suggested that he talk to his parents about it before I talked to him. He said they didn’t want to talk about it. I really just couldn’t leave him like that. I don’t know what his parents believe. I was clear that different people feel and think about different things. He’s seen a lot of death in this young life. He “thinks” a lot.
i would say he takes after his grandmother doesn’t he!
We do have a lot in common. And thanks for making me smile and have a few happy tears.
i am the provider of happy tears!
I was never comfortable with the idea of death. It came when my dad died and I was ten that I inherited the ability everyone in my family had to contact with the world beyond. I have seen, heard, and felt and all that I now know I have no more fear and I love it when I can receive contact and know I too am missed and loved by those up above. It is good that your grandson can reason about death so well.
I think children can quiet themselves and feel things if we give them the time.
It is awesome that he feels comfortable to call you and ask your opinions and he shares his. This will help you both through the grief. Nice job my friend.
Ahh, thank you. They trust me because I am “just” a step-grandma and according to their words “You love us because you want to, not because we are related by blood, you just married Grandpa.” That is why they call me by my first name as well. Their father didn’t want them to use any family terms. It has worked out well for the kids and me.
I have felt loved ones in the past as well, so I know it happens. I believe heaven has our loved ones, so studying God’s word will strengthen you more and more. Praying for you!
Thank you so much. That is kind of you. I and I will take prayers any day of the week.