Children

        "We are all children at heart. Under the most dignified exterior, there is a little child who lives from the past. Most of the time there is not enough time or opportunity to let that hidden child out to play, but once in awhile it responds. We need to recognize that child within. It doesn't mean we have to return to some childish game we played but to some play or activity that gives us the opportunity to feel that freedom. Perhaps you once loved to swing, yet it seems somewhat un-adult like to do so now, so you resist, but how much fun it would be to just give yourself a few moments of pleasure and swing like a child. Of course it might bring smiles to some adults, but that is the wonder of play ...the pleasure of it spreads. There are so many things that we can think on to bring us the pleasure of recapturing childhood fun. You may not have had an opportunity to experience that because of the family you were born into and the circumstances of poverty or poor relationships. That should not stop you. Become a child and enjoy. Is it a simple thing like coloring or puzzles? Is it a visit to a particular place or perhaps it is a food that is associated with a certain time. We all need to give ourselves a chance to relieve ourselves of the responsibilities of adulthood.

        Do you have children? There's a chance that many do not have for they can guide you into new ideas of play. It doesn't take expensive toys and equipment, it just takes time and a sense of sharing and enjoyment. The first thought that probably comes to mind is that there is not enough time - so many chores and activities to be done and so little time to squeeze it all in. Yet in taking a few moments to play, it seems magical at times that the work part seems to go faster and smoother. In addition, you are creating and play is a wonderful outlet for creativity and imagination.

        Help the children you know to play. It does not have to be structured. So much of play is set up in that way now, and basically there is nothing wrong with that. However, there should be a balance between structure and unstructured time. Open your mind to the possibilities of small things that can be done. It doesn't have to be a trip to a museum or to a particular entertainment park. Perhaps it can be some exploration of nature or a look at something that is culturally different.

        Play is much more important than busy adults realize. It can be quiet play, quiet enjoyment, or something more active. The important thing is that it becomes a part of your life."