Don't we all possess that innocence?

That inner kid, desiring to be playful, with our peers.
To try out new games, learning new skills, engaging the world with curiosity and voracity. And that excitement, to go on adventures, field trips. The all complemented by our ability to be wowed, amazed by the new stews. By end of the day, that itch to tell the world all about what we've seen.

And those other times, we feel proud of ourselves. Feeling stoked to showcase our talents, craft. Wanting to be acknowledged and praised for our work ethic and efforts. And those butterflies flapping about, when we gift our creation to one dear. Feeling eager to see their facial expression, radiation.

And at times, we become possessive of our toys. Not wanting to share; hoard & control. Requesting the best store has to offer, enticing food on another's plate. What follows: an unrelenting outreach for the desired object, and the must, right here/right now mentality. Much whining and pouting later, we get our way. Or nah.

At times, we feel bad for making mistakes. For breaking another's toy. For hurting another on the playground. Feeling overwhelmed witnessing their pain, but trying our best to mitigate. A sorry and sharing of lollipop, is it nuff? Then, shame visits after reprimand.

Those other times, we get mad at one of ours. For messing up our pillowed castle, hurting us in the process. We start crying, unconcealed, making a big case and puddle. Feeling vulnerable, we want others to take our side, rallying allies. But after the tempest, we are released, becoming naturally forgiving. Even our sworn enemy would transition to the bright side. Same cycle resumed thereafter.

And many other times, we feel loved. By the presents, the affirmation, the pat and the pet. The belief that others value us, want to play with us. That we have something good to offer. That people are interested, invested in what we have to say. On the peerdestal, our marvelous personality stand.

Then THOSE times, we feel rejected, not being able to find playdate. Not being included in the current and groupthink. After being scorned and mocked for our erratic behaviors, we realize how mean and average others can be. The ending touch: a self-pity party.

Now, all those times when we look up to giants. Considering parents to be superheroes, invincible. Feeling protected in their vicinity, honored to have offsprung from their pool. Much gratitude and joy for time spent in their presence. Loving to cuddle, to hold hands. Falling asleep while being read to, catered to. #life

And that inner drive to become and grow. To look just like ma and pa, walking in oversized shoes. Obsessed with chugging milk & watching forbidden shows, not realizing life's hidden responsibilities. We would get it eventually though. That somehow innocence has no place in this fallen carnival. That we ought to be neo-cynikeptical in order to survive. Unwillingly, we give up our precious self in order to don on the mask of new age. And in the bar mit pizza ritual, we leave our signatures in the human conditioning book.

Bear and hug. Time to come out and play. We waiting.