Age

So about two weeks ago, I turned 18. It’s weird to finally be the age my friends and I always planned ahead of time to tell random strangers. Whenever the girls and I are at the beach or just out on the town at night, we always turn to each other and say, “If anyone asks, we’re 18.” It’s stupid and juvenile and has never done us much good, but it’s always fun. 

However, what I have come to notice is that the world has such an issue with age. If you have struggles when you’re young, people tell you, “You don’t know what struggle is until you are an adult.” Or “Just wait until you are older - then, you will know what it’s like to have real problems.” As if age is what determines hardship. Well, it’s not.

People can struggle when they are 10. When they are 25. When they are 50. When they are 100. 

And on the other hand, there’s this idea that your life does not truly start until you graduate. Until you’re on your own. Until you have a job. Until you have a family. 

Until. Until. Until.

NO.

There’s this poem I love that I think describes the problem perfectly. I don’t think anyone knows who wrote it, but wow, it’s accurate.

***

“I Was Dying”

First I was dying to finish high school and start college.

And then I was dying to finish college and start working.

And then I was dying to marry and have children.

And then I was dying for my children to grow old enough for school so I could return to work.

And then I was dying to retire. 

And now, I am dying . . . and suddenly I realize I forgot to live.

***

I have always told myself that once school ends, I will finally get to do what I want. To travel. To be independent. To have fun. To find love. But slowly I have come to realize that every moment, breath, heartbeat, pause is life. 

You, me, everyone has the opportunity to do interesting things and develop God’s purpose for them. You can enjoy life no matter what stage in life you are at.

Obviously you will always have obligations. For example, I am in high school and being a student is my obligation. But I promise, it is so possible to live life and make worthwhile memories during your job and obligations.

For me, I live life in the moments that I have weird, inappropriate conversations with my family.

I live life by spending an hour at the river with a dear friend.

I live life by being spontaneous and saying “yes” even when I lean towards wanting to stay in my comfort zone.

I live life by staying up late to read a good book.

I live life by sitting on my roof and writing.

I live life by sacrificing sleep and perfect homework to invest time in the people I love.

I live life through coffee shops.

I live life through the lens of a camera.

I live life through live music.

I live life by hanging out with Jesus.

So I would just like to say, no matter your age or if you are struggling or if you are not where you want to be, you can - no, you should - live life to the fullest. It is so possible. And so worth it.