memo to a younger self
So you've seen a bit of the world now. You've encountered people different from yourself, and perhaps even found that their cares could be yours. In the process, you've also discovered that the ways in which you once looked at life, and what you actually believed were the answers to The Big Questions, aren't adequate anymore.
Guess what: you're growing up. This may be a revelation to you, but don't treat the rest of us like we're pulling up the rear. And before you throw out the what, examine the how. You won't be the first to revise and expand upon what came before; this is virgin territory only to you. Many much older and wiser than you and I have been through it before. (Some of them have even written about it.)
If you continue to flatter yourself and think so much of your 'thinking,' you'll remain mired in adolescence, stuck between your privileged childhood and a fully-fledged adult life. This may make you a prime candidate for a role as the most intelligent contestant on a TV-reality show, and you may be able to pass yourself off, indefinitely, as sophisticated and fashionable. Here's the kicker: actual adults can't stand you. It may seem fine for now, but the more of your friends who do grow up, the fewer of them, likewise, will be able to stomach your 'sensitivity' and 'reflection'.
You aren't going to arrive; this isn't a temporary affliction, nor your special curse. Nope: this is it.
Guess what: you're growing up. This may be a revelation to you, but don't treat the rest of us like we're pulling up the rear. And before you throw out the what, examine the how. You won't be the first to revise and expand upon what came before; this is virgin territory only to you. Many much older and wiser than you and I have been through it before. (Some of them have even written about it.)
If you continue to flatter yourself and think so much of your 'thinking,' you'll remain mired in adolescence, stuck between your privileged childhood and a fully-fledged adult life. This may make you a prime candidate for a role as the most intelligent contestant on a TV-reality show, and you may be able to pass yourself off, indefinitely, as sophisticated and fashionable. Here's the kicker: actual adults can't stand you. It may seem fine for now, but the more of your friends who do grow up, the fewer of them, likewise, will be able to stomach your 'sensitivity' and 'reflection'.
You aren't going to arrive; this isn't a temporary affliction, nor your special curse. Nope: this is it.