It isn’t really that big of a deal…just follow closely

Have you ever wondered why children are hardly ever sad, tired or quiet? Well I can’t completely say, but I believe it’s mostly because they have little or no cares. When they are hurt, they cry without considering the stares or what goes on in the minds of those staring, they don’t care! When they are happy, they jump, laugh, play … they express themselves regardless. 

But growing up now, into adolescence and teenage hood, that is no longer the case, as things have changed and are still changing. Now, we have a reputation to protect, Lol. Depression can set in, sadness over a bad argument with a friend, worry over exam results, excitement over going to school and other things that seemed odd as a child.  Our emotions didn’t change, but actually our priorities did, our taste and common sense of how the world should operate as against how it actually does. We are on the way to maturity.

The online dictionary tells us that to be mature is to be fully developed in mind and body. Hence “adulthood is the period in the human lifespan in which full physical and intellectual maturity have been attained” (Britannica for kids).  Physical maturity entails appropriate development in the physical parts of the body especially in the internal organs in such a way that an individual can fully perform major physical functions. Intellectual maturity on the other hand entails being able to make good decisions and make wise use of information based on the life’s experiences which have translated into some form of wisdom. This also applies one way or another to emotional and Spiritual maturity.
Our adolescence and teenage years are actually a transition, a journey into adulthood. So all we experience during this period are a miniature of the real thing, more like internship. At this stage, learning should be at its peak as it is for interns. Ironically, rebellion is at its peak also, as well as nonchalance and the ‘know-it-all’ attitude among so many others. This is basically because we are trying to adjust to system change, new responsibilities and we really don’t know where we belong, as we are torn between childhood and adulthood. 

So what is the key to a successful transition?
Is it even possible? Yes it is. Now that doesn’t mean there will be no scars along the way,  it only means that the scars won’t be in vain because you would have learned some lessons and  that accidents are minimized so that the whole essence of  teen hood is maximized. That is a successful transition. 

So when you are confused because everything is changing and you don’t understand why you are moody or irritated; be calm and know that it’s a process, it won’t last forever. Hence, make the most of every opportunity as the outcome would either give you a star or a scar. When your emotions begin to go hay wire, 

Seek to understand; understand the much you can about yourself, where you are and where you are going. Understanding comes by

Knowledge. Ever learning… Willingness and patience to learn plus effort always leave you smarter. The more challenges you successfully handle, the smarter you get and the smarter you get, the more of an adult you become and ultimately, the more responsible. Never stop learning. 

Here’s a little story I read, to buttress my point: 
Once upon a time, I slipped on a wet tile floor, a boy on wheel chair caught me before I slammed my head on the ground. He said, “believe it or not, that’s almost exactly how I injured my back 3 years ago.
 There’s always someone who has been there before you. Observe, Ask and Learn in preparation for the rainy day.

Every child, adolescent or teenager, no matter how tiny today, would have a story of transition to adulthood someday God willing, but what’s important is what we are able to take from our growing up years that can make adulthood an interesting and desirable season rather than a burdensome one, because ready or not, it will come. How ready are the teenage and youthful muscles to take on adulthood? There are already too many irresponsible and immature adults out there; I don’t imagine anyone wants to make that list.
As you grow up, and begin to understand, you must make it a point of duty to learn continuously, develop your intellect, emotions and Spirit. Learn to apply your experience and knowledge gained, appropriately and I’m sure you would have a successful transition.

James 1:5

Written by Fidelia Ben-Udi