… are twenty-five 2 year-olds trying to get out. (Cue audience laughter)

I don’t know who first said this, and I presume it was in jest. But they spoke much truth as well.

Inside each of us are several two-year-olds, three at least. One is egotistical, spontaneous and selfish. He always wants his own way and is quick to anger if he doesn’t get it. Criticism or restraint or infringement is a slight and he reacts accordingly, at times lashing out.

Another is the creative, fingers always wet with paint to draw on walls and floors in bright colors. He sings at the top of his voice and dances to tunes only he can hear. He flouts convention, is deaf to critics, an wants only to paint bigger, sing louder, dance faster.

And a third is timid and apprehensive, one hand reaching for something solid with each tentative and uncertain step outside. If things go wrong, he retreats to safety. When truly threatened, he runs to hide behind his mother, clinging to her skirts for cover and reassurance.

We need to recognize each of these children, in ourselves and in others. Each needs a voice, each needs to act out. Our job as the adult in the room is to hear each one out, establish acceptable boundaries, and help each to grow and mature into adults themselves.

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