Editorial: To the youth- don’t rush growing up

This one is for the youth of Charles City and New Kent: Enjoy your years now and don’t rush growing up.

I can remember living my life as a teenager in Charles City. During those days, I didn’t do too much except play basketball in my backyard and participate in after school activities. I enjoyed that time and dwell on it as I reflect on my past.

Today, the youth are in a hurry to grow up. Some youth want to grow up so that they can get a car and have their freedom to drive where they want to. I see young people working jobs at early ages, looking to make a dollar or two early on in their lives.

I can relate to you, young people. There were times when I grew up and I thought, “Man, I can’t wait to get out the house,” or “I am going to drive here and do this or do that.” There were times when I wanted to get away from my family or make my own money to prove that I can live on my own.

Similar to what I am telling you now, I was told to live my life and enjoy my youth because time will fly by. I did slow down in my youth, taking time out to do as many things as I can in school. From high school sports to seeing part of the United States in college, I took advantage of opportunities. I did it because it was something I needed to do, not because I wanted to. Time does fly by and it does it at an alarmingly fast rate. This June, it will be 20 years since my high school graduation. Aye yi yi!

I know some of these words won’t make any sense now, but when an adult tells you to enjoy your youth, take that chance and do so. You’re going to have all your life to work. And at the rate things are going, retirement may not be an option by the time you reach the upper 60s!

But most importantly, I implore you to enjoy your youth because tomorrow isn’t promised. There have been several days as a coach where I have unfortunately seen deaths of former players and those who came near it. We were placed on this Earth to live our best lives and positively affect others. But we were also placed here to enjoy life as well.

If there is a club, a sport, or an activity that interests you, do it now while you still can. The body will deteriorate and grow old over time, and that’s just how life is. Make an impact when you’re young so that the memories you have when you get older will be ones that you cherish.

There is nothing wrong of wanting to grow up. Just enjoy the process along the way.