Where I live, nobody who's fourteen is having sex and doing

"Where I live, nobody who's fourteen is having sex and doing major drugs. And I think if you see it in the movies, you may be influenced by it. I think it's so important to preserve your innocence." These words, spoken by Natalie Portman, carry a wisdom that speaks to the core of what it means to preserve the purity of one's heart and mind. In a world where images of decay and corruption can be found at every turn—often romanticized or glamorized in the media—Portman’s reminder is a call to protect the innocence that is so easily lost in the pursuit of experiences that promise to define maturity. It is an ancient truth that innocence is not merely the absence of experience, but the sacred space where the soul remains open, untainted by the harshness of the world.

O Seekers of Wisdom, listen well: innocence is a treasure, one that is easily lost, but difficult to reclaim once it has been tainted. In Portman’s reflection, we see a powerful reminder that the innocence of youth is not to be rushed, not to be hastened or stolen through the forces of society, or the images we consume. She acknowledges that media, particularly movies, often project a world that is not in line with the natural progression of life. Through the lens of a camera, we may see young people engaging in actions—be it sex or drugs—that seem normalized or even glorified. But, as Portman wisely notes, these portrayals carry with them the potential to influence and shape the young minds that consume them.

Consider the example of Socrates, whose teachings were always rooted in the idea that the mind and soul must remain pure, free from distractions, so that one could seek wisdom and virtue. Socrates famously said, "An unexamined life is not worth living," but what he meant was that innocence—in the sense of openness and clarity—is necessary for true self-examination and growth. To lose that clarity is to blind oneself to deeper truths, to succumb to the pressures of the world. Just as Socrates sought to preserve the integrity of the soul, so too does Portman speak to the importance of preserving youthful innocence, to avoid the distractions that lead one away from the journey of self-discovery and true growth.

Likewise, consider the Victorian era, an age that placed great value on the concept of innocence—particularly in the lives of children and young adults. While some of the attitudes from this period may seem extreme by modern standards, the essence of their reverence for youth is important to understand. During that time, society recognized that the innocence of young minds must be preserved, free from the corruptions of adult society, so that these individuals could grow into virtuous adults. In contrast to today’s world, where media and entertainment often push children into prematurely adopting adult roles and behaviors, the Victorians sought to protect youth until they had the maturity to face the world without the vulnerability of innocence being stripped too soon.

O Children of the Future, reflect upon this: what is the true cost of innocence lost too soon? What is the price paid by a young soul who is forced to grow too quickly, who is exposed to violence, drugs, or sexuality before they are ready? Innocence is not ignorance, but a kind of purity—an untainted view of the world that allows the heart to remain open to learning and growing in a natural, unforced way. It is through innocence that the world is first seen with wonder, that each new experience is full of possibility and hope. It is through innocence that one learns to love, to care, and to create meaning in their life without the burden of being corrupted by forces that seek to manipulate or diminish that light.

Beware, O Seekers, of the world that pressures you to conform, to act before you are ready, to believe that growing up means adopting the behaviors and actions of an adult before your heart is prepared for them. For it is not in rushing into experience that you will find your path, but in taking the time to grow, to understand, and to protect the most important part of yourself—your innocence. The lessons you learn in childhood and youth shape the person you will become, and if they are rushed or forced, they may never be fully understood or appreciated.

Lesson: The wisdom of Natalie Portman is clear: to preserve your innocence is to protect the core of who you are, the ability to approach life with an open heart and mind. Innocence is not to be lost to the pressures of society or the media, for it is through this purity that you can fully experience the true depth of growth, love, and wisdom. Practical action: In your own life, seek to protect your innocence by being mindful of the influences around you. Do not rush your growth, nor let external forces push you into adulthood before you are ready. Honor the sanctity of your youth and approach life with patience, understanding that true strength and wisdom come not from prematurely living out adult experiences, but from nurturing your heart and mind as they evolve.