Here is another piece from our summer Invite to Write Challenge! We asked our writers to craft a story, telling us about their fantasy world. You can read all the pieces here on our site. The one below is by Grace Dunn!
Mama Can’t Play Today
Dedicated to Paul, Lulu and Frankie. My rock, my light, my joy.
Mama can’t play today
The doctor told me to rest
I really wish that I could
But I just don’t feel my best
Mama can’t play today
But I still want to join
Let’s transform my resting space
Into a place of joy
Mama can’t play today
My battery is running low
Come lay with me in my bed
And we’ll put on a shadow show
Mama can’t play today
My body is working hard
So meet me at the couch
And we’ll write grandma a card
Mama can’t play today
But I still want to explore
Let’s pull out the tablet
And visit the ocean floor
Mama can’t play today
It’s all so loud and bright
But I have the best idea!
Let’s play cards by candlelight
Mama can’t play today
I’m feeling very sleepy
But a cozy tea party
Would be extra dreamy
Mama can’t play today
I need some quiet time
If you read me your new book
That would truly be sublime
Mama can’t play today
My body’s feeling sore
But let’s paint on a canvas
And create what we adore
Mama can’t play today
My head is hurting so
Yet your hugs and kisses
Make my heart overflow
Mama can’t play today
I know that’s hard to hear
I’m so thankful for your patience
And I love feeling you near
And though I can’t always play
As much as I would like
We can still find special ways
To share our love, day and night
Epilogue to the parents with a chronic illness
One Christmas, my daughter asked Santa to heal my illness. My son speaks of my illness as a “bad” guy he could take on and defeat. When facing devastating chronic illnesses or sudden onset diseases, we all look for answers and hope. But as a parent, it can be challenging to find the best age-appropriate language that could accurately describe my own dynamic and devastating illness Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (AKA Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or ME-CFS).
Prior to having a chronic condition, I worked as a Child Development Specialist for hospitalized children. I learned how vital it is to translate frightening medical situations into words that lessen fear. I also learned how imparting hope and creating joy are just as critical for healing as anything else. Play became the universal language we shared.
Now I want to flip the script and translate my experience. Once again with the goal of lessening the fears associated with illness in a family. I wish to create a tangible, playful and–most importantly–hopeful fantasy world for us all.
I wrote this book for myself, and for all parents trying to turn pain into joy, be creative, and be as present as we possibly can. I hope parents are inspired and comforted in this story. Even if we are unable to be as playful as we would like, modifying and creating meaningful engagement with our children is still possible.
