William and my husband have been doing something quite exciting lately - a comet named Holmes exploded in the sky a few weeks ago. Somehow, this made the comet a million times brighter and appear to be half the size of a full moon. Ever since the dad-and-son science team learned the news and spotted the fuzzy circular blob in the sky, the backyard had turned into an exciting place: chairs, binoculars, star charts, misplaced shoes, and unfinished food…
The two would spend half an hour every night in the cold after dinner.
Every night.
Last night, after another session of star watching, the two entered the living room. I could feel the cold air lingering around their bodies as they shut the door behind.
“Daddy, that was so much fun! I love comet Holmes - it’s a magic!”
“Great! I am glad to hear that, son…”
“Daddy, I love you.”
“Great! I am glad to hear that.” Someone is trying to put an end to the conversation and send the other one to bed.
“Daddy - can you stop eating?”
“Uh??” That was an odd question.
“Why stop eating? People have to eat to grow. If Daddy stops eating, Daddy won’t be able to grow…”
“Daddy - I don’t want you to grow because if you grow too old you will die. I don’t want you to die…”
Oh, my God! My husband looked at me, not sure how to respond.
“Uh… you know, William, everybody has to grow old and die, even the stars and comets…” Well, that’s deep for a 5 year old!
“Uh… you see - one day Daddy will die and you will be by yourself - but you will be OK, because you are so strong and tall and big and smart…” Someone wished he knew the subject better so that he didn’t have to mumble.
“No, Daddy! I don’t want you grow and die! If you die I will punch myself and break my skull and then I will die, too!”
Lots of hugs…
