But that is just about every mother’s story. Caring for children is a fast and efficient way to experience at least a little saintliness.” The poet William Wordsworth de-
scribed how children see the world as “…appareled in celestial light [having] the glory and freshness of a dream.” Yet, as adults, this vision, “…fades into the light of common day.” Having children of our own helps us to reawaken some of the celestial light within. Perhaps this is what Jesus meant
too, when he told his disciples, “Un- less you change and become like little children, you will never enter the king- dom of heaven.” This makes sense if we think of the kingdom of heaven not as a future, far-off place, but as a state of consciousness, here and now. Heav- en is the state of wonder and natural well-being where children dwell and in their company, we naturally re-enter the kingdom.
Steve Taylor, a UK university lecturer and researcher, is the author of Waking from Sleep, described by Eckhart Tolle as, “One of the best books on spiritual awakening I have come across.” His new book is Out of the Darkness – from Turmoil to Transformation. Visit
StevenMTaylor.com.
How to Treat Parenthood as a Spiritual Path
n Don’t be tempted to rush your children; try not to be impatient at their slowness. Walk at their pace and be mindful with them.
n Consciously cultivate a fresh, intense, childlike vision. Imagine how the world looks through their eyes.
n Let youngsters teach you the marvels of the world around you. Be as open and curious as they are, not taking anything you know for granted.
n Give yourself wholly to play with kids, allowing yourself to step outside your mental world of worries and responsibilities.
How to Support Your Inner Child’s Natural Spirituality
n Don’t be irritated when children ask, “Why?” Encourage their sense of wonder.
n Try not to be irritated by youthful exuberance and excitement. n Try to limit the amount of time kids watch TV or play computer games. n Encourage children to use their own creativity by inventing games, drawing or painting.
n Schedule periods of quiet relaxation and meditation, which enable them to feel more at home within their own being.
Source: Waking From Sleep, by Steve Taylor
natural awakenings
December 2011
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