Philosophy for Children Part Seven: Simone de Beauvoir and the Acceptance of Grief

Simone de Beauvoir was an intelligent lady who wrote about various things including sadness.

Simone de Beauvoir was a brilliant lady who wrote about many things, including grief. He believed that sadness is an emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. It’s okay to feel sad, but it’s also okay to try to feel happier. He thought it was important to talk about our feelings with someone we trust when we feel sad.

He believed that everyone has the power to choose, even when they feel uncomfortable. He said it’s okay to be sad, but it’s also important to find things that make us happy. Just like when you feel sad and then do something fun like playing with your friends, drawing, or reading a book.

Simone de Beauvoir also thought that people should try to help each other to feel better when they are sad. He said that kindness and helping others can make us feel better. He said we shouldn’t let grief stop us from doing what we love or being with the people we care about.

He knew it was okay to be sad, but he wanted people to remember that there are good and happy things in the world. In his works, it is said that even when we are sad, we can still enjoy the little things, like a beautiful sunset, a funny joke, or a big hug from our parents.

Think Station:

• In your opinion, how can we help a sad person?
• What things make you feel better?
• Do we need another person to make us happy? Or can we make ourselves happy alone?

A Short story:

Once upon a time in a colorful land, there lived a shy little rabbit named Benny. Benny loved to play and jump in the meadow near his house, but whenever he met new animals, he felt a little uneasy.

One bright and sunny day, one of Benny’s friends named Sammy Squirrel invited him to a picnic in the forest with all his friends. At first, Benny was excited, but the closer he got to the picnic spot, the more nervous he became.

When he arrived, he saw all his friends laughing and playing. He wanted to join them, but he felt embarrassed. He didn’t know what to say or how to join them.

Just then, a wise old owl noticed that Benny was sitting alone. He flew and asked what is wrong with you? Benny told him in a small voice that he felt uncomfortable around new people.

The wise owl smiled kindly and told Benny that it was okay to feel that way sometimes. Everyone is a little shy or unsure at first, but it’s important to remember that they can be good friends.

After encouraging the owl, Benny slowly approached the others and to his surprise, everyone welcomed him with open arms and smiles. They showed him how to play and gave him some of their treats.

As they played and laughed together, Benny’s uneasiness subsided. She found that meeting new friends wasn’t so scary after all when she put in the courage. It was actually fun!

From that day on, Benny learned that even when he feels sad at first, being brave and making new friends can ease the sadness.