“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” - John Lubbock
Gone are the days of rigid schedules and time management. Time’s clutch seems to loosen, and the childhood freedoms and feelings seem to awaken during the hottest months of the year. Summer is a time of rest and relaxation for some, and work, camps, or other activities to keep busy. However, despite a few differing opinions, summer is anything but a waste of time.
Many argue that summer is by far the most unproductive time period of the year, but I would beg to differ. During summer, a person is able to try new things and travel without the restraints and stress of missing an important class or test at school, or evaluation at work. Relaxing and focusing on yourself is extremely productive, even if there is no tangible proof of the time used.
During the summer, children feel more liberated. You are able to do things with friends that are off limits during the school year. You bond and become closer as the whole day is filled with endless possibilities, and a car ride holds the potential for awesome adventures. The day is lazy and so are your plans. Other days, however, may be extremely busy: filled with doctor’s appointments that were forgotten about during the school year and other responsibilities that are often neglected when the time is divided on scheduled time and not your own.
The days in summer are taken at your leisure, and the light and night meld together in order to form the most perfect 24 hours. Friends take on the roads and different states for unforgettable road trips, or get together for bonfires and marshmallows. They do stupid things that would otherwise be viewed as frivolous during a time where homework needs to be done in a timely manner. Teenagers for the first time in nine months are able to enjoy life for what it has to offer and not learn about it from some textbook. They are able to visit the places they would read about and learn an infinite amount more.
The weather turns conducive for stargazing and drive-in watching. It cooperates for pool days and night time talks. Water parks become busier and night times seem warmer. Gone are the days of sweater weather and scarf season. Pineapple takes over pumpkin, and lattes are replaced with iced teas and coffees. Life becomes easier and people become happier.
The other seasons are great and have their own gifts to offer, but something changes in summer. Kids come together in entrepreneurial ventures to sell lemonade to as many commuters as possible. Teenagers are getting their first jobs in order to save for the financial burden of college. Parents are able to enjoy their child’s company (even if they are driving them crazy), and for the first time all year, people are found outside enjoying the outdoors in its full glory. Summer is definitely the time for bonding, and all around people are slightly happier and are enjoying life a little more.
