When I was younger, I was often called mature and an “old soul” by adults who knew me. Teachers, my mom's colleagues, grandpas golf buddies, and family of course. Everyone was impressed by my grown nature at such a young age. I thought it was cool and played it off naturally. In fact, around the ages of 5-8, I didn’t really understand what these grown ups were going for. But after years have passed, I’ve finally realized why I was so mature! I glorified my independence.
As many know, I am an only child raised by a single mother. Of course, my other family members were there to raise me, but because their lifestyle differed from mine so greatly at times, I learned how to get things done in my own. I didn’t know anybody my age prior to school, and I didn’t get to know my classmates the best. So in order to entertain myself, I would take things into my own action. Watching tutorials on how to draw, pushing myself to be successful in school with many independent programs, and more. I love the sense of being able to do things all by myself, like I was a “big girl!”.
Things were great, but that doesn’t mean there was any negative. Being so independent from a young age, I lost out on so many opportunities of experiencing true youth. Now, let me explain; of course I did childish things like watching cartoons, running around on the grass, playing on play structures, you name it. I just wasn’t able to experience these to their full potential. My brain developed to be self reliant, resulting in me not having fun with people my age. Every recess at school, I’d basically be all alone (for several years at least), trying to enjoy my time. And I did, but without anyone else.
I wouldn’t say I regret becoming independent so soon, but I wish I got to experience more when I was little. Of course, I can’t take a Time Machine back, but if I could even for a day I would. Just so I can experience that carefree youth. Just so I could have some wholesome fun. Just so I can be free. Just so I can forget about being independent for a few minutes.
Independence is great, but don’t rush into it too soon. Trust me on that one.
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I can relate to maturing earlier than many other kids. My maturity was really mostly more on the environment around me when growing up than me actually wanting to mature, but in the end, I still will consider maturing at a younger age than most other people. I also wished I was able to enjoy my childhood more than what I actually experienced. The final paragraph is a great way to end your blog as it gives an important lesson that you had to learn in a somewhat harder way.
ReplyDeleteI would always hang around my brother and his friends so I can relate to being mature for your age, I also looked 5 years older at all ages so that definitely helped. Rushing to get older is a flaw only few recognize, we often don’t realize we are leaving the good old days until we are out of them. So no matter the age just try to enjoy wherever you are in life.
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