becoming again as a Child … (06/11/12)
When I first read in the Bible Jesus encouraging us all to “become again as a child”, I really wondered about his sanity … I mean, I’ve worked with thousands and thousands of children over the years, and if there is one thing that is almost certain it is that most of the time children exude some pretty self-centered views on Love.
“My mother says to look for a man who is kind. That’s what I’ll do. I’ll find somebody who’s kinda tall and handsome.” ~ Carolyn, age 8
“How do you get a boyfriend? I shake my hips and hope for the best.” ~ Camille, age 9
“How do you get a girlfriend? I guess one way is to take the girl out to eat. Make sure it’s something she likes … French-fries usually work for me.” ~ Bart, age 9
“Love will find you, even if you are trying to hide from it. I have been trying to hide from it since I was five, but the girls keep finding me.” ~ Bobby, age 8
Come to think of it, lots of adults I know are still advocating similar beliefs — trying to find the Love “they deserve”, trying to find a partner who will “love them as they are”, even hiding from Love so they won’t get hurt again. They are still worry far more about the Love they can get than they wonder about the Love they can give.
Of course, a little research will unveil that Jesus actually encouraged us to become as INFANTS, not as children, which makes a lot more sense. Infants see the world as continuously Wonder-full, they Forgive their trespassers on a dime, and they LOVE others “all-IN” — all three traits that I highly recommend adopting if you are interested in living a life of Joy & Peace & Meaning.
That having been said, just as some of us adults “get it” when it comes to Caring for others without condition, so do a few of our children … Allow the deeper meanings of the following statements to inspire you to go forth and LOVE all-IN today.
“Don’t forget your wife’s name … That will mess up the Love.” ~ Erin, age 6
“Don’t say you Love somebody and then change your mind. Love isn’t like picking what movie you want to watch.” ~ Natalie, age 9
“Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.” ~ Chrissie, age 6
“Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.” ~ Mary Ann, age 4
“Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas when you stop opening presents and listen.” ~ Bobby, age 7
“If you want to learn to Love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.” ~ Nikka, age 6
“Love is foolish … but I still might try it sometime.” ~ Floyd, age 9
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