This is the first summer that I’ve been away from my family. The first time that I’ve felt like a “real adult.” Where meals aren’t ready for me after work, where if my friends are busy or working or with other friends then I have to entertain myself. Where my parents aren’t telling me to make my bed, take out the trash, or stop being lazy.
And you know what? It’s made me miss my childhood. I thought this summer would be the most magical summer of my life. I thought the freedom would be glorifying. That the lack of structure and rules and chores would be literal heaven. But, if we’re being honest here, I miss my mom nagging me about getting all my chores done. I miss my dad making annoying jokes to the waitress about how much he hated his meal even though he basically licked the plate clean. I even miss arguing about who gets the car with my brother.
Growing up is hard. It’s exciting, and thrilling, and super fun, but it’s also a lot of change. Change is hard, change is weird, but it’s also super necessary. Sure, I have one more year of college left (thank goodness) but for some reason I can’t stop thinking about what my life is going to be like after college. Where will I live? Where will I work? Will I live alone? With roommates? In a city? Will I be happy? It’s a lot to think about.
Long story short, while this summer is only just starting, I feel like I’ve learned a lot. I’m learning to be happy spending time alone. I’m learning to look at the positive, especially when it’s the hardest. I’m leaning how to entertain myself. I’m learning how to be alone with my thoughts (something I’m not good at doing). I’m learning a lot about myself. So while this summer is the first summer without my family, it doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy it like I always have in the past.
So here’s to making this summer amazing, even though I’m a “real adult.” My summer goal is to make the most of every moment, even if that moment is just enjoying sitting on my porch or couch doing nothing at all.