“Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still.”

-Chinese Proverb

I’m a relatively young person, not quite twenty yet.  I have very little life experience, and time in “the real world” under my belt.  However, I know a little bit about getting older.

I have two very different definitions of “growing up”. One, obviously getting older, usually when talking about a child growing into an adult.  Then, there’s GROWING UP, as in maturing.  At this point, it’s time to take o responsibility for your own actions and life, and make something out of yourself. I think I’m starting to grow up, in both senses of the word.

Sometimes, however, with maturity, comes a loss of adventure and zest for life.  Being cautious becomes your new hobby, and you think more about what could happen than what most likely will.  This is where I get the most meaning from today’s quote.  “Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still.” I’m not afraid to grow up, as long as I can still live out my dreams and ambitions while doing it.  I refuse to stand still, and not live my life the way I want to.  I refuse to let my head get the best of my heart, and I refuse to become the person my friends leave behind.

The expression “live a little” goes a long way with me…never give up an opportunity to try something new, be daring, take a risk, or have an adventure.  Our experiences make us who we are today. If we choose to stop experiencing, what do we have to live for?

Don’t let yourself stand still. Live your life.