It recently hit me that I am going to be a junior in college. Wait... what did I just say? I feel like just yesterday I was a junior in high school -- eating lunches packed by my mom, finishing homework in 30 minutes, having very few responsibilities and not realizing how in just a few years I would be forced to become an adult. After living on my own at school for the past two years, I have come to see that growing up is hard. It's hard to have to remember to do your own laundry, shop for yourself, take care of yourself when you’re sick, get your own gas, be responsible for your time, and go to church without your family. Things I so often took for granted during my adolescent years are hitting me hard.
In a couple more years, I will be graduated and forced to get a job, a house, a car under my own name, etc. The responsibilities are going to continue to pile on for years to come. I am starting to see that this time is flying by and that making the most of these young adult years is so important. Don’t let them pass you by. Live in the moment; experience all that you can, while you can. With growing older comes more responsibilities: marriage, work, kids. Don’t get me wrong, all of those things are wonderful and beautiful things, but until you have to face those commitments, enjoy your younger years.
It’s so easy to get caught up in what you have going on. Whether that is school work, actual work, relationships or whatever it may be, just remember that these are the years to discover yourself and to make lifelong memories. I’m not saying that once you’re older you can no longer enjoy life, but these college years of having few responsibilities will only last so long. So don’t miss out on what these years have for you because you’re too focused on other things.
I can’t say that I am entirely ready to grow up. Something about being a kid is so inviting -- no responsibilities, no drama, no worries; just pure bliss. Alas, I am 20 years old and on my way to becoming an actual adult. I was talking to one of my friends the other day and he said, “Dang Rachel, we are getting old. Every decision we make is starting to actually matter.” And he’s right. My biggest decision is no longer which dress I will wear to the homecoming dance, but rather, where do I want to live after school? Am I sure I chose the right major? Will my current job be able to support my college budget? Will I graduate on time?
And I know as I get older, my decisions are going to get harder and harder. While I know adulthood will bring with it many more exciting times and new memories, I want to hold on to these younger years. I want to make the best of the summers I have off, the friends I have now, and the freedom that comes with being young. Each stage of life has something to offer, so don’t miss what this stage has for you. Live in the moment, enjoy each day, and don’t stress about the future, because before you know it, these years will be nothing but distant memories.
