Dear Friends,

I have again this summer enjoyed several weeks working with children from our faith community and from the greater neighborhood during the Sacred Art Program. This program has always been a time to listen to the voices and hearts of children and to marvel at the work of their hands. I know that I write about this experience often and I am again today.

Recently, in a discussion of the ancient temple in Jerusalem, a little six year old was very puzzled. We were looking at our model of this majestic building in preparation for drawing it. We talked about it having been destroyed twice long ago. This child with a completely incredulous face and voice asked again and again "Why? Why would anyone destroy a building that took so much time and work to build? Why would anyone do that? Why? But why?"

He presents a challenge to each of us. How would you answer his questions?

Can you think of an answer that doesn't admit that adults aren't always good at conflict resolution?

Can you think of an answer that doesn't admit that children can be much better at giving and accepting apologies?

Can you think of an answer that doesn't admit that we expect more of our children than we do of adults when disagreements arise?

Why?

Peace and grace,