Why children keep their own counsel

<p><em>What do you want to be? </em>Small children are asked a form of this question on an alarmingly regular basis. One might as well ask the youngsters, <em>What is your 75-year plan? What career can you choose that will keep you and your future descendants in comfort? If you, little child, dream of being an artist, then you must know it is a laughable occupation. It does not pay. It was quite possible for many others, whom you will study. We revere them now that they are safely underground, no longer prophesying in paint. But a career in art is not feasible for you personally. If you continue down this road, you will die alone in poverty and madness. Look at the facts, will you? </em>Better to ask these children, <em>Would you like another crayon, while we draw at the table together? </em></p>