Though it is often discarded, the myth of a perfect world is just that—a myth. In Greek, where ancient tongues and stories have enthralled people for millennia, ‘no place’ translates to Utopia –hinting at an unattainable ideal. Yet, it is now the exact opposite: a perfect place. A very contradictory statement that challenges our understanding of idealism and offers insights into the complexities of human nature. Using the story of Mount Olympus as an example, we see a world devoid of compassion and empathy, where ambition and greed destroy family bonds, a very sinister show of how blood is not thicker than water. Similarly, the devastating events of the two World Wars also act as a haunting reminder of humanity's ability and obsession for destruction, pissing over the notion of a peaceful existence. Just as the myth of Utopia has evolved throughout time, from its Greek origins to its modern interpretation, so has our understanding of an ideal society changed. Social injustice, mass extinction, and climate change are just a few of the problems facing humanity today. The rise of capitalism and technological advancement has brought in an era of great wealth, but it has also prolonged the non-ending cycle of environmental degradation and exploitation. Meanwhile, the rise of authoritarianism poses a great danger to society and raises questions about our ability to ever experience a better future. So with all these points laid down, what does the perfect world look like to me? In my vision, children rule the world, putting their sense of wonder, innocence and justice at the center of social structures and decision-making. In this world, all children are cherished as if they were our own and innocence and wisdom coexist. The Nine Circles of Hell depicted in Dante's Inferno are changed into circles of compassion and understanding where people are not solely assessed by their past actions. They are given the chance to redeem themselves and prosper in society. Central to this ideal world is the concept of safety and security for all; gone are the days of watching the news in horror as coups and ethnic cleansing happen; safety is not a luxury reserved for the privileged few but it is now a basic right enjoyed by everyone and acts of kindness are the currency. Furthermore, this perfect world's lack of categorizations reflects a society free from prejudice and discrimination. Early on, children are taught to value diversity and appreciate the depth of human experience. As mentors or facilitators, the adults support and guide the kids in making decisions while honoring their autonomy and creativity. Policies and institutions are designed with the well-being of future generations in mind, ensuring intergenerational equity and harmony. By drawing comparisons between this world and the beloved character Strawberry Shortcake, we find recurring themes of friendship, kindness, and the power of imagination. Much like the kids seen as the leaders in this ideal world, Strawberry Shortcake and her friends in the land of Strawberryland exemplify the values of inclusivity and compassion. Differences in appearance, background, or abilities do not hinder the friendships and bonds formed among its inhabitants. Rather, diversity is celebrated as a source of strength, mirroring the values of camaraderie and acceptance. So whether in fictional realms or real-life aspirations, the vision of a world shaped by the ideals of childhood gives hope and inspiration for a brighter future for all—serving as a concrete blueprint for positive change. This vision challenges us to reevaluate the status quo, to question the deeply ingrained systems of inequality and injustice that all too often govern our world. It inspires us to see and seek new possibilities, and actively put in the work by rekindling the dormant spirit of curiosity and imagination in ourselves that so naturally shines in children's hearts. The author is a dedicated advocate for social justice and human rights.
