I am a seventeen year old who spends the majority of her time with people under the age of ten. There. I said it.
I have recently come to the realization of just how childish my summer life has become. I nanny from 8 AM to 5 PM most days. I work in a toy store on the weekends. I coach a 10U softball team on weekdays.

My summer has become one giant regression into childhood.

Just a few weeks ago, I found myself watching Spongebob Squarepants of my own accord.

As a teenager, I should be embarrassed about my childish behavior, bashful about my apparent disregard for those my own age, and ashamed of my failure to be a mature (almost) adult.

I’ve decided that I am exactly the opposite of those.

In the world we live in today, what is a little bit of childhood imagination going to do for you? It will keep you sane.

Between crotch-tweeting politicians, a bum economy, and natural disasters out the yin-yang, I have found it hard to find hope in day-to-day life.

The one hope that I HAVE discovered, however, is children.

I am surrounded by individuals who’s idea of a crisis is a cicada flying near them. I babysit little girls who think that the world would end if iCarly was canceled. The little girls I coach wear Justin Bieber shirts to practice.

And yet, I am taken with the world of children. This is for one main reason: They are light and fluffy.

Yes I am aware that these children are not cups of yogurt. But that is the only way I can describe a child’s mind. They know no prejudice. They do not judge. They wouldn’t dare turn their back on you.

The amazing kids I have been fortunate enough to spend time with are the quintessential friend. They enjoy my company (or so they tell me) whether or not I look dolled up. They think I am funny whether or not I stutter. And they have fun with me whether or not there are others watching them.

So I am very proud to say that I am a teenage kid. The beauty of life is easiest seen when you take a step back from the atrocities of the world and think like a child.

The best lesson I have learned from these kids is to live my life, regardless of who is watching, with a passion for who I am and what I want to be.Why would I need to hang out with kids my own age? I have the best ten year olds a girl could ask for!

If being a kid means living this way, just call me Peter Pan.