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Props to the Ataris for this insightful song lyric, which is definitely spot on. I'll take it a little further and say that I think growing up is overrated, and I have a lot of questions about the concept. Do we ever really completely grow up? If so, how do we know when it happens? Is there a set age or a stage in life where we become a grownup and there's no turning back? Is it within our power to refuse to grow up?
I am 23 years old. I've graduated from college, and I have a full-time job. I get a paycheck, and my own health benefits. I'm about to move in with my boyfriend of almost 4 years. I join the hoards of commuters each day as I make my way to and from work. A frat party no longer has any appeal for me. So, am I grown up or am I still growing up? I choose the latter. I'm only 23, this is only my first job, I'm just starting out on my own, and I still have a lot to learn and experience.
I don't think we have to grow up completely if we don't want to, and it might be better for us to keep our inner child alive. I just listed a number of reasons why I could be considered a grown up, but there are plenty more that prove the contrary. I'm not ashamed to say that I still sleep with stuffed animals. Sometimes when I need to de-stress, I color. I'm very easily amused and I love toys (my desk currently holds a swirly M&M dispenser, a mini blow-up Bozo punching bag, and a Minnie Mouse whose skirt spins and lights up). I still depend on my mom and dad for support (of many kinds), I love when they take care of me when I'm sick, and find fulfillment in making them proud. I like to be goofy and use my imagination. Playing on playgrounds still makes me smile.
So grown up or not grown up, that is the question. And for me, the answer is neither. I think the best thing to do is find a balance. Be a grown up when and where you need to be, but let yourself have fun, let loose, and release your inner child. Growing up is an ongoing process of learning and experiencing new things. It can be challenging, but it can also be a lot of fun.
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Comments
04.01.09
And you're finding this out now?
As for the wanting vs actually having or being:
"Stonn. She is yours. After a time, you may find that having is not so pleasing a thing, after all, as wanting. It is not logical, but it is often true."
04.01.09
I think grown up is simply that at this stage of our lives we have all options in front of us (23 also). Until now everything is basically laid out for us without much choice. Now I'm starting my own business doing what I want and can live where ever I chose. Or I can change all that in a minute if I chose.
04.02.09
There are times when it's necessary to be the grown up as you say. However I think I have the most fun when everybody is being all grown up when it's not really necessary and then I release my inner child. Life is too short for being the grown up when the time and the place doesn't require it.
04.02.09
I totally agree with you--I feel as though I'm grown up in the sense of my responsibilities, but I also can be really fun and random and do childlike activities. What I think is important is to keep having that sense of wonder and openness to new things--I think that will keep us young forever.
04.02.09
Thanks for the great insight everyone! @Courtney you are so right, a sense of wonder and openness definitely will keep us young forever.
11.26.10
Lawn Care Services Usually I do not post comments on blogs, but I would like to say that this blog really forced me to do so! Thanks,for a really nice read.
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