Shel Silverstein

A Permission Slip to Wonder: Anything Can Be

To hear "child" is to recover a posture—alert, generous, and game. Addressing ourselves and others that way softens defensiveness and heightens attention, so we notice the small openings that lead to large outcomes: a question asked, a hand raised, a door kept ajar. In this spirit, Silverstein’s line becomes both blessing and task. We cultivate minds prepared for chance, hearts guided by care, and habits tuned to surprise—so that, when the moment arrives, anything can happen, and the worthy things can be. [...]

From Mustn’ts to Doing: Silverstein’s Brave Invitation

Bringing these insights together, a simple practice emerges: first, listen—write the mustn’t in clear terms. Next, ask why—identify the risk or value the rule protects. Then reframe—what outcome is truly desired, and what safer path might reach it? Pilot—try the smallest experiment that tests your idea without undue harm. Finally, learn—measure results, adjust, and decide whether to scale. In this way, “then do” becomes thoughtful, brave, and kind. [...]