Why I Don’t Want to Grow Up: Embracing the Joy and Innocence of Childhood

As we grow older, we often look back on our childhood with a sense of nostalgia. The world seemed simpler, more magical, and filled with wonder. This reflection on childhood stirs up emotions about why holding onto that sense of innocence is so important. It also raises the question: do we really have to give it up just because we grow up?

Childhood is a time where the world feels safe, and life feels full of possibilities. There’s an unshakable belief that everyone is kind, everything will turn out alright, and that someone greater—be it God or a higher power—is looking after us. As we age, the harsh realities of the world start to seep in. We are introduced to the darker sides of humanity—dictators, criminals, and the constant bombardment of bad news from the media. It's easy to become disillusioned.

However, despite all the negativity we encounter as adults, there’s something precious about maintaining a belief in the goodness of people. That’s something children do so effortlessly. They approach life with open hearts and open minds, free from the biases and fears that many adults carry. It’s a reminder that we can choose to see the good, even in a complicated world.

Learning from Children’s Innocence

Watching children grow and experience life is a special kind of joy. Their innocence and purity are something we, as adults, can learn from. They don’t judge people based on stereotypes or preconceived notions. They simply accept others based on their own experiences and interactions. Imagine if we, too, could live that way—free from prejudice and always ready to embrace others. Wouldn’t the world be a much kinder place?

Spending time with children, like my own great-grandchildren, offers a glimpse into this unfiltered way of living. Whether they’re excited about a new toy or simply thrilled because someone they love has entered the room, their joy is genuine. It reminds us of the simple things that truly matter in life—love, connection, and shared moments. As adults, we often get caught up in the fast pace of life, consumed by work, financial stress, or societal pressures. But children show us what is really important—relationships and love.

What Happened to the Simple Joys?

When I think about childhood, I can’t help but reflect on the simple joys that filled those days. Things like picnics in the park, Sunday afternoon drives, and, of course, the belief in Santa Claus. Today, it feels like life moves too quickly. We’re so connected to technology and constantly busy that we forget to slow down and enjoy life’s little pleasures. But those moments of joy, connection, and wonder—those are the things that truly matter.

Seeing the sparkle in a child’s eyes when they believe in Santa Claus, or simply seeing their happiness when surrounded by loved ones, reminds us of this truth. Children have a way of grounding us and bringing us back to what’s real and important. Their love is unconditional, their excitement about life is infectious, and they help us remember that not everything in life has to be complicated.

Why We Shouldn’t Rush Childhood

There’s an old editorial from 1897 where a young girl, Virginia O’Hanlon, asked if Santa Claus was real. The response, famously titled “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus,” captured the essence of what it means to believe in something good, something magical. The editorial argued that Santa Claus, like love, joy, and hope, lives on in the hearts of those who believe. It’s this kind of childlike faith that we should protect, not only in children but also in ourselves.

As adults, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we need to prepare children for the “real world” by rushing them into adult responsibilities. But, in doing so, we risk taking away their innocence and joy too soon. While it’s important to teach children how to navigate life, it’s equally important to let them enjoy the wonder of childhood for as long as they can. The excitement of discovery, the belief in magic, and the simple joys of being surrounded by love—these are things that make childhood so precious.

Holding Onto Childlike Wonder as Adults

Growing up doesn’t mean we have to lose the best parts of childhood. The love we share with our families, the joy of watching the people we care about grow and succeed, and the excitement of new experiences are all things that can stay with us as adults. In fact, holding onto these things might just make life more meaningful.

Children remind us to be curious, to love unconditionally, and to find joy in the little things. They show us what it means to live in the moment and to embrace the beauty of the world around us. So, while we might need to grow up in some ways, we don’t have to lose our sense of wonder.

In today’s society, there’s often a focus on financial success, intellectual achievement, and moving up in the world. While these things have their place, they shouldn’t come at the cost of the simple joys and truths that we knew as children. Honesty, love, and kindness are timeless values that we should hold onto, no matter how old we get.

So, if growing up means letting go of these things, then I say I don’t want to grow up. Let us hold onto the magic of childhood and remember that, no matter how complicated life gets, the simple things—love, connection, and wonder—are what truly matter.