Teach Me Growing Up

When I was a little kid, my grandma made me a hanging frame that said “I just want to stay a kid forever.” And for so long I believed that. To me, being a kid was the best part of your life and from there, things were only going to get worse. In fact, I used to talk to my dad about how scared I was about growing up and I would lay awake at night every now and then trying to figure out a way to stay that kid forever.

The thing was, I didn’t understand what it meant to be a grown up. All I saw was responsibility, bills, and a job. But I never saw the freedom that came with growing up. The ability to travel and see the world and the people in it. The gift of all new experiences outside of my comfort zone.

It took me a while to see it. But although I still miss the innocence of childhood, I am thankful for the life that came with growing up. I am thankful for the people, the lessons, the fun, and yes even the work that came with it. I get to experience love, passion for the gifts I have and I get to be moved by others hard work or creative projects. That is something that most kids skim over and completely miss.

Do I miss being a kid? Sure.

Would I want to stay a kid forever, knowing what I know now? No thanks. Each season of your life is important and its important to accept that.

I’ll check back with you when I move into the “growing old” phase. I might have a different answer by then.