a note on growing up

I have some friends that say they never ever want to grow up. But I think they equate being an adult with a Monday-through-Friday, nine-to-five cubicle job, with stressing over taxes, with talk about retirement plans, and with pantyhose. Viewed in that light, I can see the appeal of the college life.

Last Friday night, Dave, Ward, and I went to the contra-dance after-party at one of the regular's home in midtown (Memphis). There were other young adults like us, as well as older folks, middle-aged and retired. We milled around drinking wine and eating cheese and pita bread and desserts. It was really pleasant for me because I was reminded of my favorite communities, in college and after which were never just students but everyone ranging from high-schoolers to retired men and women.

See, these folks weren't drab and automated and too-damn-practical as you assume adults would be. No, they were elegant and passionate and wise and amazing. That's what growing up can be for us, too. Personally, I like the idea of shouldering some of the responsibility for our world, of guiding the next generation. As an adult, you've got more of a leg to stand on if you make suggestions and seek to change things. You're looked up to.

Growing up is not about leaving this ideal, glorious childhood and young-adulthood behind. Growing up is about becoming a more whole, mature, and beautiful person. Some of my favorite periods of time have come post-college actually, which interestingly enough, directly contradicts some of my friend's nostalgia for the college years.