In a conversation with someone today, I had a reflection on the things I have gone through in the past couple of years, how I learned from them, and how I am a much different person now. And then I was reminded why I try to keep in mind what's most important in whatever I do or happens to me. More importantly, though, I began to wonder when I actually began to mature and think independently.
"Age is really just a number." I said. "Although the legal age in most countries is 18 years of age, what really determines the maturity are sense of reasoning and responsibility, understanding of humanity and its complexities, and the ability to react to the world with empathy, compassion, and wisdom." I continued.
Depending on certain circumstances, people can become mature and responsible even before the age of 18. Where I am from, people can be thrust into a life where they have to "grow" older than their age and take critical steps in their lives. For some, they have to step into leadership roles, perhaps in their families. And with responsibilities, there can be some level of transformation with time, if one is willing.
I usually find myself younger than most of my peers, wherever I am. That never bothers me, however, although I may be discreet about it (for obvious reasons). And then I find myself taking on responsibilities in one way or another.
I am not sure when it started, but I have usually sought to be actively involved in making important changes and developments in anything that piques my interest or aligns with my values, views, and passion. If I deem myself fit, regardless of age and experience, I'll likely take the opportunity to serve. And I have been that way even before I was 18.
Am I implying that I am mature? Heck, yes. I mean, it's not that I think I am more knowledgeable than most people, smarter, or anything of sorts; it is that I am liberal, empathetic, kindly assertive, and whatever that applies to me. Anyone else can think what they want, as they're entitled to that.
Do I always act mature? No, actually. I can't always make the best decisions. There are times I would look back and be like, "Perhaps I should have done it this way." I may cringe, but the truth is, what happens after is what matters.
What one does after a mistake matters a lot, just like in the game of chess. One has to learn from it so they can do better. And anyone can figure that out even before they're 18.
So why this particular arbitrary number for legal age?
In many countries, 18 is the legal age. It's at that age that they can vote and make significant decisions about their lives.
It doesn't exactly define maturity, but it does set a clear benchmark for society to recognise and respect individual autonomy. That is, you know a person is over 18, and then you can expect them to have certain liberties of adulthood.
Maturity comes with reflective thinking, introspective assessment of oneself, and evaluation of one's decisions and actions. Time usually tells how "grown" one is, but age doesn't define maturity. Pen drop.
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