A pure soul is one freed from passions and constantly delighted by divine love. (Maximos the Confessor)

It was, I think, this notion of soulfulness that explains the teaching of Jesus, "unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3)

Children have their passions, but they are not imprisoned by them. Anger, envy, and much more pass quickly. Many of my deepest concerns are entirely absent from those younger than 10 or 12.

Even more striking is the delight of many children in the simplest of experiences. Their wonder, their openness, their joyfulness is our model.