"I wanted to do the just-right thing.
But how could I figure out what that would be?
"Can you tell me what to do?
I don't know how to help."
My friend told me she wasn't sure."
Does anyone know exactly what to do, or how to help, when death comes calling? The young narrator knows what to do when their brother's cactus dies; draw a picture and add a note of sympathy. In fact, the brother would prefer a joke to make him laugh. Interesting, and doable.
When their cousin's goldfish dies, they bring a joke book. The cousin would prefer a hug. That's easy, too. What about their teacher's hamster? After giving a hug, she would prefer getting help with passing out snacks in the classroom. The death of their sitter's dog requires, not a snack, but a look at some photos. How's a kid to know what to do when everyone finds solace in different things?
But, when their best friend's grandma dies, the child has no idea how to help. Wanting to do what's right, the child admits to not knowing how to help or what to do. Their best friend isn't exactly sure either. Figuring it out together is exactly what is needed. It takes time, trust, and love.
This story feels like the perfect pairing of words and art. It's a collaboration that evokes a quiet acceptance of loss and sadness, while allowing there is no one way to deal with it. The shared flower garland is a most perfect outcome. Splendid, simply splendid!
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