Cry, Heart, but Never Break: A Reflection on Loss and Love

"What Would Life Be Worth Without Death? Who Would Enjoy the Sun If It Never Rained? Who Would Yearn for the Day If There Were No Night?"

It has been a few days since I lost my good friend, Tonton. I understand that death is an inevitable part of life, but my heart is filled with deep sorrow. Last year, I thought I wouldn't be able to celebrate Christmas, but here I am, almost on Valentine's Day. I feel like I have been given an extended vacation, perhaps as a wicked man, God has given me some time to repent, amend my ways, and rebuild my life.

I recently came across the illustrated book, "Cry, Heart, But Never Break" (2016), written by Glenn Ringtved, illustrated by Charlotte Pardi, and translated into English by Robert Moulthrop.

The story is a heartwarming and bittersweet tale about four siblings who must deal with the loss of their grandmother. Despite their sadness, the siblings remain determined to keep their grandmother's spirit alive by sharing their memories and cherishing the time they had with her.

The story is told from the perspective of Death, who visits the siblings to take their grandmother away. However, Death is moved by the siblings' love and determination and decides to stay with them to help them understand the cycle of life and death.

As the children pour Death's coffee cup, they hope that Death will not be able to take their grandmother away because he only works at night. Little Leah holds Death's hand and asks, "Why does grandmother have to die?" Death tells the story about two brothers, Sorrow and Grief, who lived in a bleak valley and moved about their lives in a sluggish and weighed-down manner because they never raised their gaze, as they were unable to see past the darkness that covered the summit of the hills. However, past those shadows lived two sisters, Joy and Delight, who were radiant and joyful, with days filled with happiness. Despite their cheerful existence, they felt that something was missing, an emptiness they couldn't explain, which prevented them from fully relishing in their joy. As Death continues to narrate, little Leah nods her head, anticipating what will happen next - the two brothers will eventually meet the two sisters, fall in love, and form two perfectly paired couples: Sorrow and Joy, and Grief and Delight.

Death explains to the children that just as two siblings, Sorrow and Grief, find happiness in each other, life and death are two parts of a balance. Death asks, "What would life be worth without death? Who would enjoy the sun if it never rained? Who would yearn for the day if there were no night?"

After Death leaves the room, the children hear the upstairs window open and Death's voice whisper, "Fly, Soul. Fly, fly away." They rush upstairs to find their grandmother has passed away and are enveloped in sadness and peace. Death speaks to the children one last time, saying, "Cry, Heart, but never break. Let your tears of grief and sadness help begin new life." Death then leaves, and the children are left with a sense of comfort and hope.

The story teaches us that death is a natural part of life and is necessary for new life to emerge. It also highlights the importance of embracing our emotions and grieving when someone we love has passed away. The image of the curtains blowing in the breeze and Death's words serve as a reminder that even though our loved ones may be gone, their spirit and memory live on in us and in the world around us.

In conclusion, this story is a beautiful and meaningful reminder of the value of life and death, and the importance of cherishing the memories of those we have lost.

It encourages us to live our lives fully, to cherish the moments we have with the people we love, and to embrace the cycles of life and death. The illustration and language used in the story help to create a poignant and touching tale that will stay with the reader long after the book has been put down.

As we reflect on the loss of our friend Tonton, let us remember to appreciate the life we have been given and to make the most of the time we have with our loved ones. Let us cherish the memories of those we have lost, and embrace the lessons that their lives have taught us. And in times of sadness and grief, let us take comfort in the knowledge that death is a natural part of life and that the love and memories of those we have lost will always live on in our hearts and in the world around us.