Birthday Surprise

Recently I celebrated my 18th birthday. I can now vote, buy cigarettes, join the army, watch R-rated movies, sign important documents without a parent, live on my own if I wanted to, even go into a porn shop or strip- club, which I would never do. I can't believe 18 years have passed. Nor did I think this would be the best birthday ever. Here I am enjoying a slice of OREO ice-cream pie.
Many people think or celebrate the fact that 16 is the best year. Yet, to me 18 is the most changing. Its the stage when I could be an adult if I wanted to. I am legally an adult. This summmer I could go to college, join PeaceCorps, or work full-time. It is a big step in growing up. My decision will decide my future. Sometimes I fear growing up. Not because I'm getting older but all the responsibilities I will have to handle. I have plenty right now. I don't mind living with my parents. We get along all right.
Yet, I know I could handle what comes ahead but I can still have fun too. I realize its ok to act like a kid sometimes and be goofy. There are plenty of adults who act like that. I know I can't depend on my parents forever. Sooner or later I will have to take care of them, for all the years they have taken care of me. I mean I don't enjoy changing diapers.
As I grow older, I learn more about who I am and what I want to become. I am lucky that I look younger than my actual age so when I become 100 I can look 50.
:)