While writing my dad’s 80th birthday card, I wanted to do something to commemorate this milestone. I thought of 80 reasons why I love him. Immediately I began to recall all my happy childhood memories. It took less than an hour to create, but as I was making the list, I noticed something. I may not have had any special possessions, went on lavish vacations, or had the largest house among my classmates, but I had a good childhood. My dad would often take me to the park at night, go to McDonald’s, or just spend time talking with me. Those memories are a big part of my childhood, and it’s a childhood that I was able to retain the wonder of.
In contrast to today’s childhood where many children have their childhoods stripped of their innocence and spend their early formative years, I was able to maintain my innocence regarding many adult topics. My parents did their best to protect me and be the best role models. Additionally, even when their parents didn’t have much money, they often had the latest trends and toys.
Now I miss those toys and trends. When times get tough, I often want to go back to my childhood. Back then, I didn’t have a care in the world, and I was able to play like a child and live my life as fully as possible. We all want to remember our childhood like this. But for those who were latchkey children or whose parents divorced, this wasn’t necessarily the case.
In the same way, God wants us to live this way today. God does not want us to view life with anxiety or anger. Rather, God wants us to regain our childlike wonder, to solidify our identity in Him, and to remind us that we are His children. Here are four ways to maintain that childlike sense of wonder.
do simple things
One of the best things about my childhood was enjoying the simple things in life. There’s nothing stopping you from enjoying these simple pleasures even as an adult. Go out for ice cream, take a walk in the park, or enjoy a picnic lunch. As you get older, you quickly realize that it’s not big, flashy gestures that create happiness. In fact, enjoying the simple things in life will make you feel like you’re a kid again. Enjoy time with your loved ones and call them often. Write notes to let people know how you feel. Often we wait until the person’s funeral to express our feelings about that person. It’s best to express how much you love your partner, both verbally and in writing.
let’s be kids again
Think back to your favorite childhood pastime. Did you enjoy coloring? Did you like riding a bicycle? Did you enjoy jumping rope or frisbee? There’s nothing stopping you from enjoying them today. Invest in an adult exercise rope or buy a Frisbee and have some fun. Spend time outside playing catch with your loved ones. Let’s go to the beach and take a walk. Enjoy nature to the fullest. Enjoying all that God has created brings back the wonder of childhood. Set aside some time each day to forget about your worries and focus on simpler, more enjoyable activities.
If your budget allows, save money to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Not only will it make you feel like your life is moving forward, but it will also make your schedule a little more enjoyable. Instead of focusing on work or raising children, it’s important to do small things for yourself to enjoy life and feel that it’s worth living.
Lightning up
One of the best things you can do as an adult is to lighten your heart. Many of us walk around with anxiety and depression, trying to just survive each week and look forward to the weekend, which is often crammed with activities and unenjoyable things. But life is designed to be lived comfortably. The Bible says, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29).
Many of us walk around with burdens we were never meant to carry. Are there areas in your life where you need to slow down? Can you let go of some obligations and make more space in your schedule for fun and rest? When was the last time you told a joke or laughed at a funny TV show? Go to a comedy show and spend the evening telling jokes and laughing. Laughter is a great way to lighten your mood and brighten your day.
Live your life with some leeway. Send a funny meme to your friends or a message of encouragement to your spouse. If you choose to brighten your mood, it can improve your life and even your health.
live life for others
Children live honestly and with integrity. They are often selfish and want things to go their way. However, children often think about others. Children freely share their toys and other prized possessions with others without being coerced by adults. That’s because they love others unconditionally.
God wants us to live just like His children. However, tough situations can sometimes harden our hearts and make us think more about ourselves than others. When you live your life for others, it is a fulfilling life. What can you do for others so that your life is no longer just about yourself? Can you donate money to a worthy cause? Can you give it to someone in need? Make some cards and send them to your local senior center.
Don’t wait until the holidays to congratulate seniors in nursing homes. Often there are no visitors. Getting a card from someone who cares about you will brighten your day. Take it a step further and visit people in nursing homes. They want someone to come and listen to their story. Older people often think they have no place in society and are often treated as outcasts, so your presence may bring more joy into their lives and yours than you realize.
Do something fun with your spouse or serve them in a way they don’t expect. Sometimes we take others for granted. Children do everything in their power to show their mothers, fathers, and siblings how much they are loved. Freely draw pictures and hug. Do the same and become known for the great love you share with the people you love the most.
We live in a world where we are told to grow up and act like adults, but losing our childlike wonder may not be a requirement for becoming an adult. You can handle your responsibilities in a way that makes the rest of your life more enjoyable and enjoyable. Do what you can to incorporate more fun and lightness into your life. If you lighten up, others will do the same.
Photo credit: ©Getty Images/m-imagephotography
Michelle S. Lazurek is an award-winning multi-genre author, speaker, pastor’s wife, and mother. She is a literary agent with Wordwise Media Services and host of The Spiritual Reset podcast. Her new children’s book, Hall of Faith, encourages children to understand that God can be trusted. When I’m not working, I enjoy drinking Starbucks lattes, collecting 80’s memorabilia, and spending time with my family and dog. For more information, please visit her website www.michellelazurek.com.
