A Time to Go Home

This unique look at dying—and living—begins when four teenage friends are killed as their school bus is broad-sided by a drunk driver. The next thing they are aware of is being in the church sanctuary, where their combined funeral service is about to take place. At first they are unsure of what is happening, why they are there, or why time is standing still. As they wait for "whatever comes next," they begin to talk about their lives and thoughts on death. We journey inside their minds as their thoughts, memories, and fears are played out before us in scenes—from David's rocky relationship with his parents to Stephanie's sensitive discussion with her mother about dying; from Jennifer's reflections on a friend's suicidal thoughts to Earl's coming to grips with the fact that he never had a close friendship as he competes on the game show "Save Face." After they have shared their joys, regrets, and hopes for those they're leaving behind, Stephanie helps the others understand that "nothing can separate us from the love of God...not even death." (Romans 8:38-39 para.) Having found a sense of peace with their pasts, themselves, and each other, they are given their chance to finally "go home." Written as a vehicle to explore death and dying with teenagers, A Time to Go Home (formerly titled Shadows) became a play about life. Much of the content came from actual teenagers through the author's use of workshops and group discussions. It is a powerful piece that effectively touches on a spectrum of topics, but ultimately touches the heart with comfort and hope.