Today in my history and philosophy of sport and physical activity class we we’re discussing if humans were fated with the lives they lead or if they chose it from their free will. It just made me think of all the different situations everyone goes through in their lives, especially during stressful times. Sometimes, I don’t think it’s neither fate nor free will. It just happens. Sometimes we’re all forced to grow up faster than other people. Situations call for us to accept our responsibilities as adults earlier than others. Yes, one could say “it’s your choice to accept it or not” but sometimes a person has to look at the situation. Sometimes you can’t control the outside forces that cause you to grow up. You can either be ignorant, choosing to ignore the problem at hand, or let go of the crutch of your youth that you’ve been holding onto and open your eyes and realize what’s happening in front of you. We’re forced to make choices and stick by our decisions. In all honesty, I am not the same person who I was a year and a half ago. Sometimes, I wish the hands of time would turn back and I could live the way I wanted. The truth is, I can’t. I’ve grown up and burned some bridges behind me, keeping the most important ones behind me. I’ve gone through severe cases of insomnia, depression, stress, heartbreak, sickness, healing, and I think I’ve grown in a more positive way because of it. I’m content with my current situation but there will always be some regret. All I can think about right now is how situations force you to grow up. Even if you don’t choose to take responsibility, you still have to wake and consider those choices in front of you. And that realization is just enough of a baby step into growing up.