The Joys of Childhood, The Sorrows of Adulthood (II)

...children are sometimes inclined to place undue emphasis on the independence and authority exercised by parents on themselves (the parents) and their offspring. Children begin to feel at some point in time that they would be happier if they were as independent as their parents.

Thus, yearning for independence begins to take root in their heart. Children who fail to address this unhealthy crave for independence end up becoming rebellious. Their end becomes lesser than their beginning. They encounter one problem after the other and sadly lack the experience to solve the mess they have created.

Yes, that is what happens when children fail to take the whole picture of life into consideration. By focusing on only the seemingly freedom that comes with independence that our parents enjoy, the child’s vision becomes unfortunately blurred to see the enormous responsibilities that come with independence from authority. Before one can think of exercising authority over his or her own self, then he or she should bear in mind the responsibilities of providing for one’s own self, making very weighty decisions that can even affect one’s unborn children, capable of accessing and ensuring good healthcare, just to mention a few.

As an adult, one fully becomes independent and exercises justifiable authority over the self. Rights come with responsibilities. The right to live independently implies that you have come of age and can now face your responsibilities squarely. As I gradually mature into adulthood, I have realized the implicit shame of still depending on parents for survival. Gone really are the days when you can boldly hightail/dash to your parents and demand your money for the day. As a grown up, you can only do that with lowered shoulders and a bowed head.

The need to work to meet responsibilities cannot be any greater as we grow older. Consciously or unconsciously, you feel it is what is expected of you as you come of age. This realization marks the beginning of the sorrows of adulthood.

 For the sorrows of the adult, the burning and instinctive desire to fend for oneself pales into utter insignificance compared with dealing with the troubles of the world. After childhood where the world appears to be a one big vacation venue, the exciting world quickly disappears into a mysteriously chaotic,...

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