Ask the director

Today’s question is one that is most frequently asked by children: Will mom or dad die, or will I die, too?

When children experience the death of someone close to them, they tend to question their own mortality and that of other close family members, especially their parents. A simple and honest answer is: “Everything that lives will eventually die.” You may say that most people in the United States have an average lifespan of almost 79 years, and some people will live to be over 100 years old.

This question is normal and to be expected. Be honest with your answers. Children will understand simple and direct answers. If you get a question and are unsure of an answer, contact us or your clergy.

Questions are welcomed and encouraged. Please send questions to: ShalomChapel@aol.com or by mail to Ask the Director, c/o Shalom Memorial Chapel, 1100 New London Ave., Cranston, R.I. 02920.