“You don’t get explanations in real life. You just get moments that are absolutely, utterly, inexplicably odd.” — Neil Gaiman

 

As anyone who has raised children or been around them knows, youngsters love to ask a lot of “why” questions. Why is the sky blue? Why is she sad? Why can’t I go outside? Why, why, why?  When children ask “why” it is a sign that they are curious and wish to learn more about the world around them. As they get answers to their questions, they become more confident and secure in themselves.  So, as tired as we might be in answering all those questions, it is important for their development.

 

As adults, we also ask a lot of why questions. The difference is, some of our questions don’t have simple answers or any answers at all. Especially when it comes to the loss of someone we love. Why did she have to die? Why did this happen to him? Why was I left behind to go through life without them?

 

These are very real and deep questions that have no easy answers. To ask these questions is perfectly normal. It is part of the human experience and our journey in this life. There are things that we may never understand completely.

 

Yet, we must move on. Life, as wonderful, beautiful, and precious as it is, doesn’t always give us the answers.  We move forward knowing we won’t know everything, trusting in ourselves, our family, our friends, and our faith to help us navigate the mysteries of life.