It has been many years since I’ve had young children living in my home, and many more since I was a child myself. Even my grandchildren are mostly grown up now. But one of my colleagues has three young children, and I’ve had the privilege of interacting with her little ones a few times over the years.
Watching little kids crawl, climb, jump, and run around, discovering new things with delighted smiles, has made me reflect on not only the joy that children bring, but also the joy they themselves find in life. They certainly see the world much differently than we do as adults!
The website Daily Good: News That Inspires published an article a few years ago by Jocelyn Kelley titled “10 Life Lessons Kids Can Teach Us.” I think this is a great list. As you reflect on your own childhood, do any of these ‘life lessons’ stir memories for you?
- Every day is a fresh start.
- Creative pursuits are fun and good for you.
- Be courageous.
- Laugh every day.
- Be active.
- Nurture friendship.
- Be the hero.
- Scars are badges of honor.
- Try new things.
- Notice the little things.
For most of us as kids, all of these things came naturally. Nobody had to instruct us to use our imaginations, be active, or make a new friend in 5 minutes. Children embrace the world and the wonder it offers with innocent delight. But somewhere on the journey to adulthood, we lose so much of that courage and curiosity.
What is a lesson on the list above that you need to be reminded of today? How can you regain a little courage and curiosity and start seeing the world a little differently—once again through the eyes of a child?
To read the full article by Jocelyn Kelley, please click here.
