My entire life has been a series of hard times. It was me getting asked if I was old enough to go see certain movies; it was people asking me if I was actually old enough to own a debit card (yes, I was); and it was me who boys called "chipmunk cheeks" because of how chubby they were.
Yes, I have what’s known as Resting Baby Face Syndrome, and it’s a condition that affects many young adults who are tired of having their legal 21-year-old ID’s questioned. If you are lucky enough to know what it’s like to not be mistaken for someone who is five years younger, count your blessings and know that the rest of us envy you. Here are some woes that only those who suffer from resting baby face syndrome know too well:
- You hate dressing in business professional attire because you feel like a kid playing dress-up in your parent’s work clothes.
- You must wear make-up to important events. You know, unless being mistaken for a fifth grader is your thing.
- You were given the Kid’s Menu long after you graduated from Kid’s Menu status. No, thanks…I’d actually like to see your drink menu.
- People are shocked when you’re mean or have a strong opinion.
- You’re not sure whether being called ‘cute’ is a compliment or an insult.
- Even though it’s annoying for the time being, you always remind yourself that being mistaken for being younger will one day be beneficial.
Take heart, my fellow sufferers of RBFS. In 10 years' time, we'll start feeling grateful for our youthful looks. Until then...