Childhood is when we see and experience things for the first time,
discover anew that which is already there. Children have the delight of
discovery. As adults, we acquire a more organized way of learning and
studying, but also lose the feel of the freshness of things. Because of
that, most adults are – almost by definition – slightly dull.
Creative ability is only found in those who retain a part of their
childhood. The artist and the scientist both have this freshness of
view. An apple falls from a tree: the child asks – why does it fall and
not fly? –and such questions are the beginning of science.
Even some human emotions stem from our most child-like parts: being
in love is the ability to see the “other” as someone novel whom you can
have dreams about.
The child’s inner and outer ability to grow is the real source of our life.
Rabbi Avi Orlow, Director of Education at the Foundation for Jewish Camp, responds:
I spend my summers traveling to see the great work being done by
scores of non-profit Jewish overnight summer camps. Camp is a uniquely
child-centered environment. It is a wonderful place just because
everyone, adults included, is open to the experience of wonder. In
childhood, fun and learning need not be distinct activities. Camp is not
just a location; it is also an invitation. It is a call to all of us to
reconnect with our inner child.
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