#Innocence

The Courage to Embrace Naivety in a Complex World

Moreover, many adopt cynicism as a defense against disappointment or betrayal. However, Rilke’s words encourage setting aside this protective shell, risking misunderstanding or pain for the sake of genuine encounter. The poet’s letters, such as ‘Letters to a Young Poet’ (1929), repeatedly emphasize an unguarded engagement with beauty, sorrow, and joy. Letting oneself appear ‘naive’ can be an act of defiant sincerity in a world jaded by irony. [...]

Rediscovering Innocence: The Healing Power of Children

Furthermore, children’s authenticity often prompts adults to reflect on their own behaviors and values. Unfiltered expressions—whether of joy or vulnerability—encourage grown-ups to approach life with renewed honesty. This mirroring effect, described by scholars such as Carl Jung in his work on archetypes, helps adults reconnect with fundamental human qualities, fostering self-compassion and growth. [...]

The Great Man is He Who Does Not Lose His Child’s Heart — Mencius

In adulthood, people may become jaded by societal pressures and experiences. Mencius highlights the importance of resisting such negativity and staying true to the ideals of innocence, positivity, and fairness found in a child’s heart. [...]