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Adult Quote by Arnaud Desjardins

“An adult is one who has lost the grace, the freshness, the innocence of the child, who is no longer capable of feeling pure joy, who makes everything complicated, who spreads suffering everywhere, who is afraid of being happy, and who, because it is easier to bear, has gone back to sleep. The wise…” quote by Arnaud Desjardins
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“An adult is one who has lost the grace, the freshness, the innocence of the child, who is no longer capable of feeling pure joy, who makes everything complicated, who spreads suffering everywhere, who is afraid of being happy, and who, because it is easier to bear, has gone back to sleep. The wise man is a happy child.”

Arnaud Desjardins

About This Quote

Source Book: The Book of Secrets by Arnaud Desjardins, 1990

Adulthood often loses childlike wonder, making life complex and joy elusive, while wisdom lies in reclaiming childlike happiness.

In simple terms: Adults lose innocence and joy; wisdom is childlike happiness.

Key Takeaway

Embrace childlike wonder.

Themes

wisdom joy innocence complexity happiness

Mood

reflective hopeful melancholic

Type

philosophical inspirational cautionary

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • career stress
  • mental health
  • creative work
  • relationships

Key Concepts

psychology spirituality existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you reconnect with childlike wonder?
  • What prevents you from feeling pure joy?
A Different Perspective

Adults may resist vulnerability, limiting true happiness.

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