We were once little children, full of hope, full of wonder for everything he sees. Our lives were simple, yet pleasant. We know very little, but we’re eager to learn much. We’re small and weak, but we’re not afraid to try out new things. Have we forgotten much of what we learned as a child? What are the things we can re-learn from children?
1. Humility
A child knows and recognizes his weakness. He is not afraid to admit them nor does he try to hide them. He knows he has yet much to learn and so he seeks teachers who could teach him those things. He knows too, that he cannot do many things. He cannot reach high objects. He cannot read books. He doesn’t know how a certain toy works. But he knows the people who could help him and he engages their help. People are always more than willing to help him in his smallness, in his humility. Have you become too proud to learn new things or to ask help from others?
2. Wonder
There is always a sense of wonder in a child. For a child, all things are new because he has seen them for the first time. How long was it since you have allowed yourself to be in awe of something beautiful or interesting? Do you still look forward to experiencing something and relieving that excitement of tasting things for the very first time?
3. Hope
Hope for a child isn’t something that’s far from reality. When he hopes, he expects, he believes. At times, he is almost certain. For us grownups, we have to have many proofs before we allow ourselves to hope. Many times, all that we allow ourselves to feel is fear. We’re anxious even if we couldn’t see the basis for many of our fears. Is it easier to be afraid than to hold on to your hopes?
4. Trust
It’s a wonderful feeling to have when a child trusts you. You could tell him anything and he’s always willing to believe. You could lead him anywhere and he’ll only hold you tighter if he ever feels a bit nervous.
Isn’t it hard to help someone who doesn’t trust you?
5. Purity
A child’s intention is pure. That’s one reason why his prayers are powerful. When a child wants something, he tells you right away. He doesn’t resort to all sorts of hidden agenda. When he is sad, he cries. When you give him something to cheer him up, he smiles right away and forgets his grief.
How do you feel right now? Could you still define what pure sadness is? Could you still feel that kind of joy that makes you want to dance like a little child once again?
Check Jocelyn's books:
"Of Waves and Butterflies: Poems on Grief", "Mend My Broken Heart", "Questions to God", "To Love an Invisible God", "Defending My Catholic Faith", and more - click here.
(You may freely quote excerpts from this website as long as due credit is given to author Jocelyn Soriano and the website itakeoffthemask.com)