Endings

As the fireworks faded away on the TV screen, we looked at each other.

‘So,’ said my 10-year-old, ‘that was the World Cup.’

‘Fantastic, hey?’ said his dad.

We sat a little dazed, but feeling happy that we had witnessed something amazing that we would never forget.

It made me realise the importance of a closing ceremony. Whether it’s a matric dance, a netball prize-giving or the last bows at the concert, we have a need to make a formal goodbye.

So here are some stories about landmarks and moments and saying goodbye.

The last year of childhood

Death are us

Our empty nest

Write in now to tell us about a goodbye ceremony in your family’s life. We’ll chose a story to win a Parent24 T-shirt – and your letter will appear in our readers letter section.