I recently spent treasured time with my grandniece. Her antics like those of many her age can leave you gasping for breath as you are doubled over in laughter. When her actions combine humor with something dangerous, the supervising adults are challenged to keep a straight face while they swallow their laughter in hopes of sounding stern.
It is so wonderful to be in the presence of pure innocence. To see aspects of the world experienced for the first time – eliciting wonder, delight, and awe.
Most of us do not remember much about what it was like to be a toddler. Even photos meticulously preserved by a family member capturing cherished moments cannot teleport us back in time in the same way that watching a young child can.
I am struck during each visit at how valued the small joys of life are to a young child – an ice pop, a trip to the park, a chase with the family dog, a big cuddle, saying hi to ‘Mr. Moon’ or a special trip to ‘old McDonalds’ to get a Happy Meal. This last phrase alone sends all the adults in the room into convulsive laughter. Just recalling it tickles my heart.
It leaves me wondering about how later life cascades until we realize that we have lost the innocence that was the hallmark of our earlier years. I do not mean to sound like Pollyanna. I am aware of the horrors that some children endure having begun my first career as a child protections social worker. Thankfully, most children do not lose their innocence to mistreatment.
But the big question for all of us, is what happened to our innocence? Did a major trauma snatch it away in an instant? Did it drip away, bit by bit, as we began to interact with others? Or did we become disillusioned when our own ideals clashed with the world which too often seems like it lacks ideals? Perhaps it was a combination of all of these!
Do we take on the tortoise’s capacity to seek safety with a protective, outer shell? While it may offer protection it runs the danger of cutting us off from each other. I wonder as I consider this question whether it is one of the factors contributing to the malaise that currently grips society.
This season of light presents a wonderful opportunity to consider reviving innocence. If this idea seems scary or even ridiculous start off at a distance.
Observe the young children in your family or circle of friends. What sparks glee? What engenders wonder? What triggers amazement?
Often it is simple things – the croaking of frogs, the star filled sky, a Halloween costume, twinkling holiday lights and everything that sparkles.
What sparks your curiosity? What would it take to prompt delight and surprise? What touches your heart and inspires awe? Take a chance that whatever or whoever you believe stole your innocence cannot take it from you again. It may be hiding, but it’s still there.
Open yourself to this possibility. Make space in your life. If you do, I think you will discover a path to the joy that rests within, the joy that is characteristic of your soul. The inner joy that is filled with wonder, delight and awe!
Wishing you a blessed holiday season and a happy new year!
Joanne
