When I Grow Up
They say, Out of the mouths of babes! and often it is so true. They have a way of saying the funniest, purest, most innocent words, which leave adults speechless. Their perspective is often just a bit “off kilter” and will occasionally even cause the adult to blush!
I seem to have collected several conversations from little people regarding the idea of “growing up.” One was where a father asks his two daughters what they want to be when they grow up. One immediately answers, “Doctor!” The second daughter says, “A magnet!”
Another conversation includes a situation where Momma was headed out to an elementary school to pick up her first-grade daughter. It was raining, and her four-year- old wanted to take an umbrella, but her momma said she didn’t need one, especially since she wouldn’t be leaving the car anyway. When they arrived at the school, her little daughter witnessing all the teachers outside with umbrellas piped up and said, “When I grow up I want to be a teacher.” And without pause added, “Cause then I can bring an umbrella!”
My oldest son was certain he wanted to work on a farm as a really young person, until he reached his adolescent years and decided he would go into the Marine Corps like his dad. The choice suited him well, and even now, within just moments of conversation, most everyone can tell where his heart is!
I have one daughter who chose nursing, another a business administration major, and yet another works as a receptionist in an office.
My youngest son was only three when he announced he wanted to be a minister. This intention was solid until as a young teenager, he decided he wanted to go into the military, specifically the Marine Corps as did his father and older brother; but as a Chaplain. However, when he learned he would have to go into the Navy, since the Marine Corps doesn’t specifically have their own Chaplains— and uses Navy Chaplains, —he immediately recanted! Knowing the rivalry between the two branches, he figured there would always be some kind of ribbing he’d have to take. Instead of becoming a Chaplain, his path led to computer tech and artist!
What causes us to choose our careers? I remember deciding I would be a teacher in ninth grade and then ended up marrying and having children! It wasn’t until I was in my 40’s that I decided I wanted to write! You may choose to laugh at me, but part of that dream really hit me when “The Walton’s” was a hit TV show back in the 70’s. I identified with “John Boy.”
When I was in elementary school and even middle school, I remember writing things down and trying to make it work. My skills were obviously not good enough to be identified by any teachers, although I do recall several teachers who did comment positively on my specific writing skills. I can’t help but wonder why it never occurred to me to try writing before I was middle age!
Did you know what you wanted to “be” as a young person? Instead of your “dream”, did circumstances dictate your life’s work? Have you made career changes late in life? Are you still saying “When I grow up I’m…..” Are you following your dream?