Extreme Hand Holding

As I was putting Norah to bed yesterday night, we settled in and began discussing what we would say in our prayers. We talked about some special people who are sick, and then I took a little leap and told her that our neighbour and a friend's father were both dying. I wasn't sure how she would handle it.

At first, she screeched 'They're DYING? Oh NOOOO!" After the initial shock wore off, we started talking, and the conversation was AMAZING! Oh, to see through child's eyes!

I explained to her that sometimes, when people get sick, they just can't get better anymore. I told her that they fall asleep when they die and they never wake up. We discussed how people get buried and then their bodies are put under the ground. She was very interactive and interested in our conversation, when she piped up to ask a question.

"So, mommy, is that when Jesus comes to hold their hand and fly through the sky?"
"Um... Wha-a-a-t?"
"Yeah, because He does that, you know."
"What??"
"Jesus holds their hands to fly in the sky.... you know, on the way to heaven."
"Oh, yes! Yes, He does do that."
"So is that when it happens?"
"Is what when it happens?"
"When they die and sleep under the ground?"
"Yes, that is kind of when it happens."
"You know why He does that.... Right, mommy?"
"No, Norah, why does He do it?"
"Because Jesus doesn't want anyone to be scared."
"Well, why would they be scared?"
"Because they think they are alone!! But do you know what?"
"What, Norah?"
"They aren't alone! Jesus comes to hold their hand and take them right up to heaven, so they are never alone. Jesus is right there with them!"

I'll admit. I really didn't know what to add to this conversation. She had me pretty speechless... It's these quiet times when we talk before bed that get seared into my brain and let me know that she is going to be able to provide great comfort to others throughout her lifetime.

I wonder if it is too much Peter Pan mixed with the natural spiritual insights of a toddler.... either way, I think she is onto something. What a beautiful way to paint a passing! Love her to pieces...