The 20th century, the author observes, fostered the idea that fulfillment is possible on Earth.

What makes a mother? Looking at your child and identifying emotion

The author describes the critic within us as adults as "the selves who live too much in their heads rather than their bodies, who are burdened with too much knowledge about how the world works rather than excited about how it could work or should, who are afraid of being judged and not being loved. Most adults do not live in a world of forgiveness and unconditional love, unless, that is, they have small children.

Your children are going through life with their eyes closed, so YOU'RE the one who has to steer.