Like every other child, I could not wait to be "older" or "grown up." Not exactly sure that I am "grown up" yet, but I am older. Don't get me wrong, I love being older, it has its perks. I can legally drive a car, gamble in Vegas and enjoy a glass of wine with my dinner. But as I was told when I was younger, growing up isn't all it's cracked up to be.
As my senior year comes to a close, I am starting to have to "adult", so I've really been thinking about how great it would be to be a child again.
1. Naps
Basically the best idea anyone ever had. I absolutely despised naps, even being in time-out was better. But now I would for sure trade all of my snacks for even a 30 minute nap.
2. Weight
Weight and what I ate were much different. They never came to mind much. I definitely never worried about my daily caloric intake or how much weight I was going to gain from devouring that half gallon of Ben & Jerry's. Society has turned calories into this forbidden and evil thing. Mass media has shined the light on this subject so much that it has made men and women self-conscious, and in some cases, eating disorders have developed.
3. Money
Money was never really something I worried too much about. Every week or two I would get my allowance, which I would spend on some candy or toys. Currently, I struggle with keeping my bank account balance over $5.00 or deciding which bills I need to pay with my next paycheck.
4. Family
Family was in close range and always around. Being away at college has made it so that I don't get to see my family as much and this breaks my heart. I loved getting together with my family and playing games or eating a big meal. Now when I get to see them, which is generally over a break, the only thing that I really want to do is scarf down as much free food as I can and take a nap.
5. Friendship
Friendship seemed like a much different concept. In elementary school, it seemed like almost everyone was your friend or even your best friend. It was easy, there were no mind games, no talking behind each others back and no being fake. Generally, if you didn't like someone, you wouldn't hang out with them and there was no trying to get the rest of your friends to not like them. My friendships now are great, but it has taken me time to figure out who my true friends are and that also made me go through some heartache.
Things seemed to be much more simple back then. Growing up was surely not what it was cracked up to be, it was even better. Even though I miss the way things used to be, I love what life is now. Naps are a truly cherished part of my day. It is easier to be healthy because I select nutritious foods to put in my body. Money is something that I truly value now and don't take for granted. It keeps me accountable and helps build responsibility. I really appreciate my family. I understand how important my time with them is and make the best of it. My friends are the best friends that I could ever ask for. They keep me accountable, they're understanding, they constantly encourage me to do my best and they make everyday even better than it was.
