I am frequently reminded about the need to know. Kids love the “why” question. No layer of a conversation can be left alone. It should be examined and explored, usually with the question why. At any age, people are curious. They genuinely want to know more than they do. The thirst often manifests itself in questions of curiosity. My defenses go on alert with curiosity works with doubt to act as skepticism with an agenda.
When I begin to wonder, I find myself drawn back to the example of young children. A four or five year old boy was living life to the maximum! He wandered, touched, and asked questions. His boldness was a testimony to the safe space created by his parents. He lived in a world where safe exploration was a norm. He saw the world around him as a place for learning, growing, and having fun. Everyone was a potential friend.
It was a joy to watch. As he walked up to me and smiled, I found myself smiling back and laughing inside. This was a day of possibilities. A child was reminding me that we could do more in the moments we have. I had presumed I was the teacher. In this moment, I was proud to be the student. Paul’s reminder came to mind; “We sometimes tend to think we know all we need to know to answer these kinds of questions—but sometimes our humble hearts can help us more than our proud minds.” (1 Corinthians 8.2)
It should be obvious that you and I do not know it all. I know I forget this at times. Yesterday, a little boy reminding me that he lived in a world where everyone was his friend. His community was an invitation for him to be part of something bigger! He clearly did not see where this could go. He was ok with the unknown. This was his time to learn, be alive, and live.
Today is an opportunity for me to remember and act on the lessons shared by a young boy.
