From Childhood to Adulthood: A Journey to Realization

Is there a specific moment or event when you truly felt you were no longer a child but an adult? This question is one that often lingers in the minds of many, prompting a reflection on the journey from childhood to adulthood. For me, the realization was both sudden and profound.

A Precise Moment of Realization

My journey to adulthood began very unexpectedly during a day that was both ordinary and extraordinary. It was when my mother was admitted to the hospital for exploratory surgery, a situation that would turn my world upside down. I was a teenager, and I was tasked with picking up my grandmother from the airport and driving her home.

When I returned, my father and his sister (my favorite aunt) were waiting for me in the hallway. The words that registered in my mind were clear and haunting: “Mom is dying, inoperable tumour.” It was a moment of raw emotion, a blinding realization that hit me like a ton of bricks. I knew I had to be strong and steady, as my mother needed me to be the pillar of support during such a difficult time. That was the precise moment I became an adult. I went on to have the most devastating conversation of my life with her, one that marked a definitive end to the child I used to be.

Key Moments and Transitions

The realization of adulthood wasn’t a sudden switch but a series of incremental changes. Here are some things that signify how I transformed from a child to an adult:

From Dependence to Independence

From “Mom, please get me that” to “No, Mom, I don't need anything.” From receiving 10-10 pocket money to earning 2000 per month at the age of 13. From playing with dolls to actually teaching children at a young age. From having countless fake friends to making only a few close, real friendships. From studying for an hour daily to studying for 10 hours daily. From going to bed early to staying up late to study. From sleeping next to Mom to sleeping in my own room. From relying on my parents to take care of me to becoming responsible for my sister.

The transformation was profound, a journey marked by taking on more responsibilities and becoming more mature.

Changes in Communication and Behavior

The transition from childhood to adulthood was also reflected in my communication and behavior. Here are some key changes:

From Dependence to Causality

From “Did you watch that TV show?” to “What do you think about our career choices?” From “Papa, I want to buy this” to “Papa, it will work out for at least a year.” From “Who will get the TV remote?” to “Here’s some advice for you, sister.” From “Mamma, what are you cooking?” to “Mamma, shall I at least help you cut vegetables?” From “Papa, why do you always watch political news?” to “Papa, who is going to win the elections this time?” From “What do I have to study?” to “What can I improve in my resume?” From “Why is this happening to me?” to “What can I learn from this?” From “I’ll do it later” to “This is my top priority.” From “What should I do?” to “Thanks for the advice, but I’ll decide on my own.” From “I wish I could talk” to “I enjoy the peace of silence.” From “Let’s watch reels” to “Let’s focus on real life more.” From “I want to speak” to “I’m happy to observe and listen.”

These changes reflect a shift from seeking approval and guidance to becoming more self-reliant and confident.

Acknowledgment and Gratitude

Adulthood came with my sister, who shares life with me and the countless challenges we face together. I want to express my gratitude for her support and love. Life moves fast, and each stage comes with new responsibilities. But I am ready to embrace the changes and grow into the person I need to be.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, please follow me for more and upvote my post if you found it meaningful.

~ Parthavi Patel