1.
A Sufi Master said: 'If you wish to be a wali (saint) change your character into the character of
children'' 'Why?' he was asked.
Children have five qualities' he answered and if adults had these same qualities, they would attain the rank of the awliya (sainthood):
one. They do not worry about their daily provision. (This is trust in God the Provider)
two. When they fall sick they do not complain day and night about their misfortune. (This is complete acceptance of what is)
three. Whatever food they have, they share. (This is generosity, a quality of God)
four. When they fight or quarrel, they do not keep grudges in their hearts, but make up quickly. (This is keeping the heart pure from rancor, malice or enmity)
five. The slightest threat makes them frightened and brings tears to their eyes. (This is sign of a soft heart and fearful-awe and reverence which is due highest to God the Most Awesome and Most Severe in His Correction)
(credit: From Annihiliation of Falsehood - Sufi Wisdom FB page)
2.
One day the disciples came to Jesus, upon him be peace and said, "Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" And He called a child to himself and set him before them, and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are transformed and become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
~ Matthew 18:2-3
One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could bless them with his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” After placing his hands on them, he departed from there.
~ Matthew 19:14-15
