My 5th graders are reading a book called, Tuck Everlasting. It explores the idea of living forever and how immortality may not be as desirable as many would think. And although it is considered a children's novel, I have to say the writing and broader themes are both poignant and relatable to adults. It's a terrific read and one I highly recommend:
https://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Everlasting-Natalie-Babbit/dp/0312369816
To get my students thinking about the question of immortality I asked, "How many of you would want to live forever?" Nearly every hand went up with the exception of a young man named, Daniel. "Dan, tell me why you wouldn't want to live forever," I asked. Without a moment's hesitation he replied, "If there was no death there'd be no point to life. You need one to fully appreciate the other. Nobody would really live if they knew they wouldn't die."
A parent who was busy filling out an emergency contact form nearly dropped his pen. He glanced up at me clearly blown away by the young man's theory. Who is this kid? I thought. How could someone so young have such wisdom?
They say teachers often learn more from their pupils than they from teachers. If yesterday was any indication of how the next 5 weeks will go I'll be a much wiser man by summer's end.
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