I was exposed to life and death issues from as far back as I can remember.  I understood the concept of birth, youth, old age, and possible death at any point along the way, but only had a child's frame of reference to contemplate the significance.  It seems the lessons were easier to learn when the value of life and youth hanging in the balance was not so vivid as it is when one can look back and realize a significant portion of both has expired.:)