When you were a kid everything seemed so easy. You woke up, played all day, and then went back to sleep. You had no worries, no cares, the only job you were required to do was to have fun.
I just wish adulthood was that easy. When I was little all I wanted was to grow up and have responsibilities. My mom was always saying, "don't be in such a hurry to grow up." Now I understand what mom meant by that.
At nineteen years old life is just beginning, but it seems so much harder. As you grow up you develop feelings, a conscience, and even experience a little heartbreak.
There is always the frustration of school. First, you have to decide what it is you see yourself doing in the future (job wise.) Then comes the decision of going to college or university. Then there is the three month waiting period. As you wait to see which school wants you and which one does not.
Once the day of the acceptance/rejection letter arrives, there is then the decision should I go away or go to a college in my home town? The number one burning question is how will I put myself through school? First idea that pops into your head is to get a job. A task you'll find that is easier said then done.
On your feet for hours at a time hanging out resume's, filling out applications, and all the time smiling until you feel your face is going to crack.
Once the resume is approved, the next step is the interview. You have to look nice. That means putting on your Sunday best, squeezing your feet into shoes you can hardly walk in and applying that smile (maybe paint will work.)
After months of searching for a job getting one can be just as painful. Especially if it is your first job. This means interacting with other people over the age of five, and who can tell you a few things.
The first day is the hardest, trying to learn what goes where, working the machines and trying to make everyone as happy and comfortable as possible. Plus, you are doing this all with a smile. After the first day it will get easier, but getting through the first day is the real test!
The best way I find to handle these never ending situations throughout your life are to:
a) Try not to think about them. Keep yourself busy.
b) Find a hobby (personally I find writing helps.)
c) Remember you are always in control of your own life.
d) Don't ever do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
e) Give it your everything and know you did your best. That is all anyone can ask of you.
It seems to me the best way to get through those teen years is to keep smiling. Because a smile can do wonders inside and out.
Good luck from one fellow teen to another.
© 1998 TG Magazine / The Students Commission