Children and animals seem to possess the same purity of heart.  Both are content just to be in the ambiance of the other.  They simply gaze at the radiant beauty of the  creature besides them with wonderment and appreciation.

Like the little animal creatures they resonate with, a child yearns to be loved and appreciated unconditionally.  Unfair criticism, detachment, and unkindness will wilt the child's ego.  Every child must be cultivated and nurtured as any rare flower in your garden would be.

Unfortunately, grownups sabotage the innocence of childhood.  They instill their own negativity and fears onto little people without realizing they are taking away the child's trust and positive expectation of life and its promise.   

While a child should be protected and educated so that others do not mislead or take advantage of his/her innocence, the child must also learn to reserve a healthy place in their hearts for those who deserve their love and trust.