Coping mechanisms

“Oh, honey,” his mother said, “don’t cry.  Someday this will all just be a memory.”

Jonah didn’t answer, only buried his face further into his arms.

“In fact,” his mother continued, “if you think about it, the memory is much more important than what actually happens , isn’t it?  Because the memory lasts so much longer, I mean.  So how you choose to remember this—that’s what matters.  Right?”

Not having the slightest clue what she meant, Jonah nodded anyway. 

“Good,” his mother answered, and patted his shoulder.  “Now come into the kitchen, and I’ll make you some graham crackers with chocolate frosting.”