by Marie Grace B. Manlapaz
MNCHS Teacher

When we hear or read the words “Be like children”, spoken of or pertaining to adults, what comes into your mind? Does it mean that literally the adult transforms himself into the child he was, though not physically, for that would be impossible, but in his ways, forms of behaviour including speech, mannerisms and the like? Why do we sometimes ensure an adult by telling him he is behaving like a child? Would it really go down to this level?

When the Lord said,” Unless you become like little children you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven,” how can we achieve the transformation? Each one is entitled to his own perception. In the first place sceptics are prone to reason out to first prove to them that there is a place called Heaven, and what is in store for them there should it truly exist.

Others may just dismiss it with a shrug and explain that they won’t need that to gain entry to the promised paradise of the life hereafter. Whatever we believe in, we cannot deny the fact that children hold a special place in the family though sometimes they may be considered burdens instead of blessings. However, there are still those who believe that a child is the best panacea for declining family relationships.

After all is said we can still conclude that there is a growing consciousness regarding children’s celebrations of various sorts especially for the sick and the underprivileged, from the ostentatious to the simplest, all, however, bound by a single purpose of giving memorable experiences to children coming from different backgrounds, memories which they store like precious jewels in their treasure chest filled with recollections of “when I was a child”.

What deserves mention are the traits and values which we used to associate or have always associated with children. To be like children does not include childish ways like tantrums with all their manifestations beside the physical, getting their way by all means and maybe selfish motives but appreciate rather their simplicity and wonder in what they see and hear. They find delight in simple joys, enjoy surprises and simply believe when told what is good and what is bad. The child’s tenderness and gentleness are bestowed not only on people but even on pets and favourite toys. One finds delight in watching them playing “house-house” where they impersonate family members and adults they know. As they go through the household chores, woe to him or her who finds their actions just like his or hers.

More than this are indications of innocence, hope and love which they manifest everyday. Elders would do well to practice these desirable values to children especially to those who feel unwanted and unloved.  Their experiences during their growing-up years leave the deepest stars in their lives that they will never forget. If children learn lessons from adults, in the same way can adults learn lessons from children?