Why do we stop believing in Magic when we grow up?

Childhood is often remembered for the influence of awe and wonder. Every corner of children's lives harbors the possibility of the magical: fantastic creatures, extraordinary adventures, and dreams that defy the laws of reality. However, as we go through different stages of life development, that special bond with magical beliefs seems to fade. Why does this happen? Why do we stop believing in magic when we grow up?

When we are little, any activity can be understood through a magical prism. A child's eyes capture glimpses of the extraordinary in the everyday, and belief in the impossible is as natural as the beating of the heart. However, as we grow, it seems that we become more rational beings and that we only trust what we are certain is real.

In this article, we will explore how this initial enchantment of life fades, exploring the paths of development cognitive, the influence of culture and society, and the intersection between science and technology in the loss of this connection magical.

The magic of childhood

Childhood, that ephemeral period in which magic seems to unfold in every corner of the world, is an unparalleled and unforgettable chapter of human life. During childhood, we experience and discover the universe with curious eyes, without the restrictions imposed by logic and skepticism. Magic thus becomes a palpable reality, woven into everyday life and with daily influence on children and their environment..

The magical moments of childhood are numerous and varied. From the simple belief in fairies, goblins and the wise men, to the fascination with fairy tales and myths. Children sometimes live practically immersed in a world in which the impossible is intertwined with the real. Dolls and toys come to life in the imagination, invisible friends are loyal confidants, and each day can present itself as a new adventure waiting to unfold. Children's natural connection to their imagination is evident in their ability to create entire worlds in their minds, where the limits of the possible are broad and flexible. In these imaginary realms, magic is not an exception, but the norm. Children, in their innocence, not only accept magic, but look forward to it with contagious anticipation.

It is important to understand that this intimate relationship with the magical is not only limited to fairy tales and fantastic creatures. Magic is also present in small daily rituals, such as blowing out the candles on a birthday cake to make a wish, or leaving a baby tooth under the pillow for the Tooth Fairy. Magic, in childhood, is not just an external phenomenon; It is an internal force that drives wonder and excitement.

However, facing this period of magical belief, so rooted in childhood, faces challenges as children grow and face new experiences and expectations. But how does this connection to the magical evolve as we embark on the journey into adulthood?

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Cognitive development and rationality

As children progress in their development, a subtle transition begins to transform their perception of the world. Logical and rational thinking, crucial elements for understanding the environment, begin to take center stage.. This process, essential for cognitive maturity, marks a significant change in the relationship with magic.

During childhood, logic and magic coexist in an enchanting dance. However, cognitive progress brings with it the ability to discern between what is real and what is imaginary. Children, once prone to accepting magic without reservation, begin to question it as they develop critical skills and analytical skills. Education, while essential for intellectual development, often acts as a catalyst in this change. Classrooms promote logic and evidence, and although they are fundamental, they can lead to the loss of the ability to embrace the magical. Fairy tales and fantasies, once happily accepted, are replaced by rational and scientific explanations.

The rationalization process is also influenced by social pressure to behave "like an adult.". Society, in its desire to promote responsibility and maturity, often discourages expressions of belief in magic. Laughter at the idea of ​​elves and unicorns replaces the knowing smiles of childhood. Magic, then, becomes an indirect victim of growth. As the mind takes hold in the tangible, measurable world, the fertile ground for magic is overrun by the weeds of reality.

However, this change does not necessarily imply a total loss. Instead of abandoning magic entirely, might it be possible to maintain a balance between logic and imagination in adult life?

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The cultural and social influence on growth

The influence of culture and society emerges as a determining element in the loss of magic when growing up. Collective beliefs and social expectations often shape the way we perceive the world, triggering a gradual fading of connection to the magical.

From an early age, society imprints on us predefined notions about what is real and acceptable. Fairy tales and legends, which once served as a source of inspiration and wonder, now are often relegated to the category of "childhood fantasies" as we delve into the adolescence. The pressure to conform to adult expectations urges us to abandon beliefs considered typical of childhood..

Magic, perceived as a form of escapism, often faces scrutiny from a society that values ​​rationality and logic. The critical view towards those who still find charm in magic can cause many to choose hide their beliefs or, worse, abandon them completely in an attempt to fit into the social mold established. The traditions and myths that enriched daily life in childhood give way to a more pragmatic reality. Magic, in this context, is relegated to the margins of adult life, often reserved for moments of superficial entertainment or for a specific audience.

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The role of science and technology

As we move into the age of science and technology, the role of these fields in the loss of belief in magic becomes undeniable. The scientific explanation of phenomena that were previously considered magical diminishes the mystery and disenchants the perception of the world around us.

Science, with its ability to decipher nature's secrets, often demystifies what was once considered inexplicable. Phenomena such as the solar eclipse, which could have been interpreted as magical events in the past, are now understood and explained in detail by science. Although this knowledge enriches our understanding of the world, it can also take away the aura of mystery and wonder that characterizes magic.

Technology, on the other hand, transforms the way we experience reality. Technological advances have given us tools to simulate virtual worlds and create amazing visual effects, bringing magic to the screen, but removing it from personal and everyday experience. The wonder of the magical is often relegated to the confines of fiction, leaving little room for its manifestation in daily life.

Recovering the magic in adulthood

Despite the challenges that belief in magic faces growing up, the possibility of keeping that magical spark alive in adult life is not totally lost. Magic, far from being exclusive to childhood, can find a significant place in the daily lives of those willing to seek it.

Some adults have discovered the key to preserving magic by consciously integrating it into their lives. This can manifest itself through the creativity, the exploration of new experiences or the openness to the unexplored. The ability to be amazed by the unknown, to find beauty in the simple and to allow yourself to dream, are ways that can lead to the recovery of magic.

In addition, activities such as reading fantastic literature, practicing meditation or Participation in rituals and traditions can act as bridges that connect with the magical essence of the existence. These acts not only keep the connection with the extraordinary alive, but also nourish imagination and creativity, providing an escape valve in the adult routine..

Conclusions

Recovering magic in adulthood does not imply a return to childhood innocence, but rather a conscious rediscovery of the human capacity for wonder and awe. In this balance between rationality and magic, adults can find an inexhaustible source of inspiration and a renewed appreciation for the beauty that lies in the magical, even if it is often veiled by responsibilities daily. The search for magic in adult life, far from being an escape from reality, can be a brave affirmation of the human capacity to find the extraordinary even in the most common aspects of life existence.