To continue, there is a fervent wish, more than anyone else I know, to return to the days of my youth (and what semblance of innocence therein). We all want to be young, faster, stronger and all that. We all go through those stages in life...but I attempt to trap my memories of better days so that I may return to their memory in times of great pain or distress--they are memories only, but I find what comfort I may in those days. Days where I was driving nowhere at all, with the time and wherewith to pursue whatever road, whatever fancy I wished. Many young people are growing up in our society at far too youthful an age...remember to allow your kids to dream, to grow their imagination...to live.
Many people feel that it is important to grow up quickly, develop a family and the obligations that go along with increased "maturity"...Hell, maturity ain't what you want it to be. Along with the maturity you seek comes hidden costs--you can't just up and go out whenever the mood strikes...now your partner must be invited along, for better or worse. Kids grow up and get sick, just like you did...they present bills at inopportune times in one's life. With a house comes the house note as well as insurance, upkeep costs, electric and water bills, and many other hidden situations where money reserved for going out generally gets used for a new front door, or something similar. You must reealize that growing up, you must take the good with the bad. Otherwise, you will fall victim to selfishness and greed, causing fights with your partner over things which you will (of course) prioritize differently. Learn to pick your battles...if your wife is sick, and needs you to help out with the children, are you sure that camping trip with the guys can't wait until next weekend? If your husband asks to alone in his thoughts and go for a little drive, shouldn't you be willing to spare him that time for reflection?
Remember the simpler days in your life where the responsibilities were less...but realize those days are gone forever. You simply can't relive your glory days or missed opportunities with people you thought/dunno/maybe loved or wanted to be with. Reflect on those good times when you need a "happy place" to turn to, but just don't try to live in that happy place because you'll only be let down by the reality of life.
