Teenagers today seem to be growing up faster than ever before. They are almost in a race to leave the most important years of their lives in the shadows to embrace adulthood.
There may be no bigger mistake than not living your life to the fullest and taking advantage of every minute you are offered. “Kids are in such a hurry to grow up,” is such a cliche phrase, but it is beyond true. There may be no better sensation than the combined feelings of freedom, control and assuredness that comes with growing older and wiser. Though we don't always feel this way, the flashes we have of this put-together feeling are immense and wonderful. Just don't be left with a false sense of security when you have a long way to go.
When you turn 18, you have an instant sense of adulthood and freedom. That is not necessarily the case. By law you may be an adult, but that does not mean you are ready for everything that comes along with it. “With power comes great responsibility” is a serious quote from Spiderman, of all people, that sums up the essence of gaining the power of independence. Sometimes these impulsive flashes aren't undo-able. At least not easily. Make sure you make wise, informed decisions and list reasons with the help of others as to whether or not these decisions will be as positive later on as you think they are now. Don’t make rash decisions. Taking the time to be mature and research your decisions will be beneficial later in life. Every decision is impactful somehow, but it takes maturity to realize exactly what that means. I don't profess to have anything figured out or have the secrets to having anything or doing anything or feeling a certain way at this age. Or any age. Those who do, I feel, are foolish.
Your mood can change in less than a heartbeat, and no one knows for sure what they're doing is right for them or kind to others. The most we can do is try. Take advantage of your adult life, but also make sure you do it responsibly. The world is in your hands. What will you make of it?
