Resources for Loss

"There Are No Happy Endings" by Shel Silverstein, contributed by Chase Bourbon (2025)

Growing up, I read a lot of Shel Silverstein -- I was introduced to him in 1st grade, and was given many of his books throughout elementary school. One of my favorite poems has always been: 

“There are no happy endings.
Endings are the saddest part,
So just give me a happy middle
And a very happy start.”

As a child, my mother imparted on me the importance of living in the moment. Since then, I have always kept this in mind. Each moment is precious, and we should enjoy them all. Silverstein excellently captures this. We already know that the ending is not going to be good, but that shouldn't affect the now. We are best off enjoying what we do have. 

I hope you now see how I find this poem comforting while contemplating loss. When I reflect back on my day and notice how I made the most of it, that's how I know I'm creating my happy middle. 

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