September 5, 2006

Have you ever wondered what determines the type of adult children will develop in to OR what affects a child’s development more, genetics or environment?

For decades, the nature versus nurture debate has pitted one theory against another without any resolve. Seems like lots of energy is consumed searching for ways to separate, isolate, compete and complicate. Could it simply be that who we are is the result of the beautiful
nature and nurture relationship interacting in a mysterious yet perfect dance?

Imagine trying to germinate a seed (nature) without soil (nurture). Seeds already contain the genetic makeup to be a specific plant yet without the necessary soil and cultivation, they will
not thrive. Soil and cultivation cannot make a pumpkin seed produce an apple tree yet with environmental supports, the pumpkin seed will be able to reach its full and unique potential.

I recently viewed a TV program describing the success of a female race car driver. When interviewed, she commented that her developmental years were influenced by a race car driving father and a mechanic mother. Would she have chosen her fulfilling profession without having had her unique family experiences? Maybe…maybe not.

Children don’t come into the world a blank slate waiting for us to script their path. They arrive with the perfect design of “God stuff” at the core of their being seeking opportunities for full expression. So what do young people need to flourish and bloom? They need unconditional love, compassion, warmth, affection, inclusion, autonomy, attention, touch, guidance, meaning and purpose, respect, encouragement, empathy, honesty, understanding, to be valued and appreciated, safety, security, acknowledgment, protection, authenticity, consideration,
silence, connection, rest, nourishment, celebrations, independence, truthfulness, play and
fun, meaningful and close relationships, nurturing, just to name a few.

How do you show up and influence the lives of young people? What imprints are you placing
in the hearts and minds of children? How are your actions, words, thoughts, attitudes and beliefs shaping children’s possibilities?

MATTERS OF THE HEART
Whatever our hands touch -
We leave fingerprints!
On walls, on furniture
On doorknobs, dishes, books.
There's no escape.
As we touch we leave our identity.

Wherever I go today
Help me leave heartprints!
Heartprints of compassion
Of understanding and love.

Heartprints of kindness
And genuine concern.
May my heart touch a lonely neighbor
Or a runaway daughter
Or an anxious mother
Or perhaps an aged grandfather.

Send me out today
To leave heartprints.
And if someone should say,
"I felt your touch,"
May they also sense the love
that is deep within my heart.

Author Unknown But Greatly Appreciated!

Lovingly from my heart,
Adrian Reznik

Copyright © 2006 Adrian Reznik