As an adolescent, I empathize that you have to deal with people telling you what to do, confusing hormones, and the rush of activity around you, all of which are trying to confuse you. You try figuring things out, but usually, things just end up in a jumble. Sometimes you push people away when you need them the most, and sometimes, you hold on too tight.
There are challenges in the way of life that can only be overcome by the strengthening of one's character, mind, and/or body. For instance, during the teenage years, numerous people feel the need to conform to society, despite the positive messages that have spread in recent years about "loving yourself" and "being who you are." Teenagers want to look, sound, act, and think so they "fit in," doubting their identity and themselves as a whole in the process. They suppress their true selves and are stuck in a superficial world. Usually, after too much pressure, however, the suppressed selves burst through to drink in the fresh air and soak in the sunlight shining onto their skin. You'll realize that you don't have to mind what others think, as long as you are happy.
Growing up means letting go of childish tendencies, to become an independent human being. It's a scary thought, being surrounded by billions of people, but at the same time, being all alone in this great wide world.
But of course, you won't ever be TRULY alone. There will always be colleagues, friends, family members, and perhaps even animals that think of you, that care for you.
Growing up is full of reminiscence. The past is but dust, ghosts, and whispers that were once vibrantly colored, completely adored, and deafeningly loud. They'll all be there, in the back of your mind, as you progress through time and leave these moments behind. But when you look back, for a split second, these moments will once again be revived, as if you were in those places, tasting those foods, feeling those textures, seeing those views, smelling those scents, and accompanying those people once again.
Growing up doesn't just occur overnight. It isn't the result of just one event or one person. It's an arduous and continuous journey that one experiences throughout life.
Growing up does not only happen during one's stages of childhood and adolescence. In fact, you may still be growing up as an adult.
Or you may never grow up at all.
But you already know all of this. Everyone has, or is in the process of growing up.
So why am I saying all of this?
I want to tell you a secret.
(What is it?)
Fear will hold you back, but it will propel you forward as well.
You're a brave one. You don't know if you're going to make it. You don't know how. You don't know who's going to be involved, or why you're doing what you're doing, but...
You. Are. Brave.
You may have to face your deepest fears and have your heart, mind, body, and soul be broken. But you will stare down your fears and mend yourself wholly because...
You. Are. Brave.
Growing up is about embracing these fears, letting them devour and consume you entirely... Then letting go, expelling them out of you, banished from you until the end of time... And then some.
This life is all about being brave, and although you will encounter difficulties, each obstacle passed will lead you one moment, one step, one bound closer to finally...
Growing up.