Lunchtime Conversation

We all sat around the table eating when Camen asked, "Mom, how much money do you have?

I rarely have cash on hand, but this time I happen to have more than usual. "I'm not telling," was my response.

Exasperated he cried, "Oh! That's not fair!"

Trying to satisfy his desperate curiosity, that I'm sure he inherited from me, I answered, "I'll say that it's more than ten dollars.

"Just tell us!"

Silence. (Except for whatever Savannah is talking about, but I can't remember because there's always some kind of chatter and I find that I can quickly disappear into my own thoughts.)

A minute later Camen casually inquired, "Mom, when you die will you leave your money with us?

A little taken back by his indifference to my death and eagerness to get some unknown sum of money, I said, "No. I'm taking it with me!"

"You can't do that!"

The offense began to sink in and with perhaps a little hurt in my voice I asked, "What kind of question is that!?"

I look over and notice the pained expression on Naomi's face. I'm touched that she doesn't want me to die. So trusting that one of our more sensitive children will console me. I ask, "Does that make you sad Naomi?"

Naomi softly answers, "Yes." She sinks in her chair and covers her hands over her eyes that are quickly becoming wet with tears. "Because when I go to heaven I want to take my teddy bear and Minnie Mouse with me."


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