The work of children does not rest in the hands of the adults who are responsible for them. It derives from the heart, imagination, and curious nature of a child. Their love for the world around them and the people who care for them, serve as protectors and mentors who provide them with the unconditional love their soul’s need. That’s really all a child needs to do his work well.
This picture symbolizes a common phrase I have heard among cautious and well meaning parents. “Don’t play with sticks, you’ll get hurt!” When I think about what is being taught through those words, what they mean to a child, I can’t help but wonder how many times we have given them the message that their choices are bad ones. What other lessons that our world has to offer, have been taken away from a child because of OUR own fears and reservations about what is safe and what isn’t? If I had said those words to him as he walked with these sticks, we would have missed out on a few important lessons that took place in a matter of seconds. The fact that one object can become two (such as the stick that broke in half). So the next time you find yourself saying “no”, ask “why not” instead. Assuming they are safe of course 🙂 |