I’ve been thinking a lot lately on what it means to grow up. Perhaps this is because I am now in my early 30’s, and I feel this is a time in my life where I am learning to let go of childish behaviors, while still maintaining my childlike wonder.
This is my theory on what growing up is all about – learning to love, manage and keep your stuff in your box.
For me growing up is about learning to care for and love your box (your Self) and all the crazy beautiful stuff you find inside of it. It’s also about learning that you do not need, nor want, to take on other people’s stuff and put it into your box. That’s their stuff to care for and your box is already full with your stuff. Your box is enough.
Equally being responsible for your stuff also means learning to not take your stuff and try and put it into another person’s box. It is not theirs to deal with.
I see the beauty of growing up is in understanding that each of us is wholly responsible for our box and what we do with the stuff inside it. Love it, hate it, ignore it, it’s your choice and your responsibility.
To truly grow up is to learn to stand shoulder to shoulder in acceptance with another box and stay true to your own journey with your stuff while being supportive of theirs.
photo credit: Steven Snodgrass
