Yesterday my parents called with the news that my great-uncle who has been battling liver cancer for years, mostly with great success, is unfortunately in his last days.  We've known this day was coming for the past few months ever since he decided to no longer pursue treatment.  He was tired and just wanted to pass peacefully when G-d intends.  To that end we had a great visit with him during our recent trip to Miami during which Mrs. GC and I knew it would likely be the last time we'd see him, but we didn't share that with our kids who didn't need to know that in our opinion.  With yesterday's news though, we decided that it was best that we prepare them for what was going to happen, particularly my six year old son, who is older and more aware than his age.  Plus, he had developed a special bond with my great-uncle, even choosing to dress like him on the 100th day of kindergarten last year, because at 95 years old, my uncle was the closest person he knew to 100.

We sat my son down first last night and explained that Uncle Moe was sick and that unfortunately he was not going to get any better.  That he wasn't in any pain, but very soon he would pass away.  Understandably he was upset, and spent much of the night going back and forth between crying and being a normal 6 year old playing and laughing, but we could tell it was on his mind.  My daughter, who is 4 and we told next with my son there, immediately got angry and told us, "No, you tell Uncle Moe no dying" while point her finger on her right hand, putting her left hand on her hip, and nodding her head with attitude.  This of course eventually evolved into tears for her too, but by the end of the night they seemed to be okay with it, and were grateful that the last time they saw their great-great uncle he was fun, full of life and played with them all day.

At bed time last night though, they both really pulled on our heartstrings.  As I was putting my son to bed he turns to me and says, "Daddy, I know what I want to be when I grow up" I asked him what that was, and he said, "a scientist, so I can find a cure for dying, and that way nobody ever has to be scared or sad." I gave him a hug, said that was a great ambition and that I would do everything I could to make that happen.  I then reassured him that Uncle Moe is not scared, and that we should all be happy for the amazing life he has lived, instead of sad for what we're experiencing now.  I then kissed him good night, and went to do the same for my daughter.

Snuggling with my daughter and saying good nigh to her, she didn't say anything about Uncle Moe, or what we discussed.  But then as I was getting ready to leave her room too she turns, kisses me on the top of my head and says, "When I kiss you on your keppy (abbreviated Yiddish for head) it means I love you" I kissed her back.  She then kisses me on my cheek and says, "When I kiss you on your cheek it means you won't die ever" Ugh.  I reassured her too that she had nothing to worry about, and shortly after that she was asleep.

It is amazing what kids are capable of and what they think.  I realize how fortunate and blessed I am, and thank G-d every day for it.