I'm a Big Kid Now.

I stop and smile inwardly at the sweet squealing child I rarely see totting across campus. 

Living in a college town is fantastic, and yet on campus it is rare for me to observe a giggling baby, or watch children walk in line with their parents. 

What happens to the sweet squealing inner child as we grow older?

Sometimes I see it in a 21 year old young man as he flies down a snow covered hill on a cookie sheet... high pitched squeals all the way down. :) 

Other times I see it when a student comes out of the testing center, literally jumping in the air with joy over a perfect score.  

Occasionally I see it in myself. For example, I discovered while leaving the library that my friend could give me a ride to my apartment, relieving me of a chilly walk in the brisk weather. In the middle of the quiet and still library I found myself in a "fist pose". Childish? Maybe. Necessary? Completely. 

I love and appreciate living in an atmosphere where young adults are learning to be responsible, competent, and independent. I thrive on the liberty of being on my own. I am having the time of my life, and I love it! 

That being said, letting the inner sweet squealing child out every once in a while is a satisfactory event. 

So, how does one become an adult?

 I pondered this question seriously before leaving for college. It turns out, everyone is just a big kid, trying to make their way in the world and build upon knowledge they have already learned. Acting professional, mature, in control, and stable is necessary to make it through the mounting challenges we are sure to face; however, catching a glimpse of the ecstatic, bashful, humble, silly, playful child inside of all of us is quite refreshing. 

Today I stop and smile inwardly at the two sweet squealing children totting across campus: a child holding a parents hand, and myself. 

I'm a big kid now!

Liz