Absorption Quote by Thomas Merton
“The modern child may early in his or her existence have natural inclinations toward spirituality. The child may have imagination, originality, a simple and individual response to reality, and even a tendency to moments of thoughtful silence and absorption. All these tendencies, however, are soon destroyed by the dominant culture. The child becomes a yelling, brash, false little monster, brandishing a toy gun or dressed up like some character he has seen on television.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948
Societal pressures suppress children's innate spiritual and imaginative qualities, turning them into aggressive, media‑influenced beings.
In simple terms: Culture crushes natural spirituality and imagination in kids.
Key Takeaway
Protect and nurture children's inner wonder.
Themes
spirituality
imagination
culture
childhood
Mood
concerned
hopeful
Type
advisory
reflective
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- community programs
- mindfulness practices
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
social conformity
media influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we create spaces for quiet reflection in schools?
- What role does media play in shaping child behavior?
A Different Perspective
Children may resist change if not guided gently.
![“[Pope Francis]sees a world in need of the Gospel, and of friendship with Jesus Christ, as an antidote to the self-absorption and loneliness that are eating away at the solidarity of the human community.” quote by George Weigel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/79d/george-weigel-9372_absorption_pope-francis-sees-a-world-in-need-of-the_343248.jpg)