The Path to Growing Up

DISCLAIMER: This isn't a savvy life tip.

I wrote this for an Esquire Magazine competition. We had to use 76 words to write some sort of poem-creative-like-entry. I never actually submitted my "poem".  Savvy life tip (that is completely overused and totally cliche): Sometimes the joy is in the journey. Here is the poem. Wonder what you guys think. Hello real world.

ANOTHER DISCLAIMER: I don't actually think I am grown up yet.

The Path to Growing Up

Realizing your parents’ don’t know everything. Finding your own path.

Trying to fit in. Finding the friends where you don’t need to try.

Dancing with others. Finding your own beat.

Seeking acceptance.  Seeking independence. Finding contentment.

The first kiss, first love, first heart break. Finding you have to love yourself first.

Making mistakes.  Disappointing others. Disappointing yourself. Finding how to pick  yourself back up.

Realizing your parents’ were right all along. Finding appreciation.

Searching for your passion. Finding your passion – and never giving up.

Is Wishing Overrated?

My birthday is on Thursday. (If you found my blog through facebook, you probably already know that). A girl at work today asked me "So what are you going to wish for?". Two thoughts came to my head: (1) Ummm, aren't you NOT supposed to ask someone that? (2) Holy moses, I have no idea!

I basically spent all of 2010 "wishing" to pass the CPA exam. You think I am kidding? Every eyelash that fell, every time the clock hit 11:11, everytime my necklace clasp fell to the front.... I literally ran outside to wish on the first star I saw each night. (couldn't hurt right?) I quite honestly wished to pass REG On. My. Birthday. Cake. (I can only tell you now since that darn thing is over, I'm pretty sure thats how it works).

But since those dreadful tests ended I can't really think of a true, hope with all your might, wish. Sure, there is the cliche "I hope to win the lottery" but I havn't actually ever bought a ticket. (and I am pretty sure that is the first step)

Is wishing no longer the norm in your 20s? (something better left to elementry school) Did we become too practical and realistic to wish on birthday candles? Am I the only one who still holds my breath when I drive by a cementery? Or has the sudden erge to punch someone when they see a volkswagen?  For the record I WILL wish something on my birthday candles (no wish I MAY, wish I MIGHT... wish I WILL) and I encourage everyone to think of their next wish for 11:11 or when the opportunity arises.