Perhaps harpgirl might happen along and offer some insight into the role these kinds of songs have in the grieving process. Meningitis was a significant health threat in the US aearly in the 20th century, and claims lives. I have a cousin who lost an 8-year-old to it about five years ago. Initial symptoms are like many other viral caused illnesses, but some strains of meningitis move so fast the child dies before the parents have any idea that its not "just the flu." Sometimes, the stuff can be non-lethal, but leave lifetime effects. I know one close to me who was diagnosed with narcolepsy and was strung out on prescription speed for 35 years before he was finally competently diagnosed as having had some variety on non-lethal meningitis as a kid. Complex stuff, to say the least. Just like the ways that we individually and collectively deal with grief. And, speaking of such things, i enthusiastically encourage ya'll to find time to see the new JOhnny Depp fils, "Finding Neverland" - a great story well done.