Finding the magic

Christopher Moore once said children see magic because they look for it. They have a way of not living for the future, but enjoying the now. They live without regret, fear, biases and judgement and instead look for the magic, the wonder and the beauty in life.

This Junior focus edition has helped me to see the world through the eyes of children again and to place myself in the shoes of parents.

The year 2020 has forced parents and children to move beyond their comfort zones, to adapt, to be wildly creative and to find ways in which to be more than their circumstances.

Throughout this year, families have laughed, cried, celebrated small milestones and overcome massive adversities. Parents and children have grown closer, and nearing the end of 2020, they have proven that together, they are stronger and capable of incredible things.

This year’s Junior shares stories of triumph, hardships, the well-being of children - both mentally and physically - and ways in which children can stay active, even in the comfort of their homes.

When you are caught between a rock and a hard place, you have to look for the magic to keep you going. The resilience of children has shown us that our circumstances do not define us.

They look beyond what meets the eye and create their own worlds. Rooms have become castles and gardens have become forests. Dare to dream like children do. Dare to look beyond the pain, the stress, the struggle and your hardships.

It’s okay to not be okay. What matters is how you handle what is thrown your way.