It seems that for many children one of the loftiest goals in their young lives is to mature into an adult and be considered by others as "grown up." there is a lot of pressure to progress to the next stage of life when one can be considered of age. But the term grown up is so abstract that it has become almost entirely meaningless. What does it mean to be mature? In most cultures maturity is achieved at a certain age and usually met with certain ceremonies or traditions. But I think that maturity is more than just a time of life, a title that every person is freely given just for reaching an arbitrary milestone. There are in fact many people who are of a legal age that are incredibly immature. They cannot adjust to the expectations of society and will be unable to take care of themselves, often becoming a burden to others. Perhaps then, maturity can be found in someone who is responsible and capable of holding their own weight, but that doesn't seem to be the case either. Many people who live on their own have become independent by manipulating and exploiting others. Without qualms they will take what they want regardless of what distress they might cease those around them. There seems to be no solid definition of what make an adult, no fine dividing line between boy and man. But that doesn't mean that children dream of maturity are chasing a fantasy. Let me tell you what I think makes a person mature. Growing up means to be compelled to protect and provide for those whom you can and who need you as well as accepting help when it's needed, not just family or friends but complete strangers because the most mature thing a person can do is to realize that no person is mature enough to survive on their own, that as humans we all face hardships that sometimes may overcome us. A grownup knows when a kindred spirit needs something, and wont hesitate to give it to them, weather it's support, or a helping hand, or even just a shoulder to cry on, and they won't be too stubborn to accept the same assistance when they are in need themselves. Being a grown up means finding your humanity and its a goal that we can all aspire to regardless of our age, sex, color, creed, or position in life, but something only the best of us achieve.
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Honestly I had a lot of trouble writing this, it felt more like I was writing an essay for school than expressing my emotions and thoughts. I don't want to write something boring, it's no fun to write and it's no fun to read. Next week or the week after I think I will try something different for Thursdays.

Feedback and suggestions are always appreciated.