Life Cycle: Childhood
Innocence of Youth
The magical age
of childhood is one of purity and innocence. The simple trust that a
child places in his parents, the simple faith a child places in G-d is
the essence of holiness and beauty. It is precisely this innocence that
serves as a foundation for adulthood and life.
The child’s
perception is created by the purity of his young imagination. His mind
and thoughts are clean and unadulterated. He has not yet been
compromised by the perception of his intellect, emotions and worldly
experience.
The aim of his
parents and educators should be to preserve as much of this innocence
as humanly possible. To encourage the child to carry the simplicity of
youth into his future and life.
Gifts from G-d
As parents we
must always remember that G-d has entrusted us with a special gift and
stipulated that we be responsible for its care. Our children belong to
G-d. He gave them to us and asked that we raise them to the best of our
ability.
Remembering that
our children are not our possessions, but belong to G-d, allows the
parent to let go when the time is right. The greatest gift a parent can
bestow upon a child is the freedom to go their own way and explore
their own path.
The greatest
Nachas (gratification) that a parent can receive comes through watching
the child walk his own path but implement the values that the parent
has taught him in youth.
