Submitted by : writer1 on Islam

Innocence
I

Innocence – let’s check our definition
A term used to describe someone blamed
For something they did not do

Also a term applied to children
As they generally do not do major wrong
And partly because they are regarded as unaware
Of the “realities” of life

But when they grow older
Can’t they can still avoid doing major wrong?
So can’t innocence in this respect be maintained?

And when they become aware of the realities of life
Why does this phrase have to have negative connotations?

Yes realities include hardship, suffering
But also include opportunities for greater intellectual development
And, much greater still, capabilities to experience exquisite states
Of compassion and understanding, shared joy and love

Being aware of harsher realities of life is just that –
Increasing in awareness and understanding
Why does it have to lead to a loss of innocence,
Abandoning love and adopting corrosive cynicism?

And what a slur on learning
To presume the more we learn, the less innocent we become!

II

Innocence does not necessarily mean not knowing
The wisest words sometimes come from children

Innocence does not necessarily mean being unaware
Youngsters often live more in the present moment than adults
Who often excess over past and future

Innocence – in a sense
Is sensible
If it is enjoying the moment
Without cynicism
Whilst still being aware

Innocence – incense
A rose fragrance lifted by, and lifting, the air
Whilst cynics, incensed, outraged,
Lash out, at that which is not within their grasp

Don’t look at innocence as a bridge to be crossed
A childishness to overcome to reach a grown up realm
Recognise it within in you as an ancient gift
Enjoy it, treasure it.

Saqib Hussain