Childhood is not from birth to a certain age and at a certain age. The child is grown, and puts away childish things. Childhood is the kingdom where nobody dies.” – J.M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan
This quote emphasizes the psychological dimension of childhood, suggesting that it’s not merely defined by age but by a certain mindset and approach to life.
*”Play is the work of childhood.” – Fred Rogers, educator and host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
Saying Goodbye: A Farewell to the Comforting Chaos of Childhood
The worn leather soles of my sneakers squeaked against the polished wooden floor as I shuffled towards the towering oak door. It had always felt like a portal to a world of endless possibilities, a threshold I eagerly crossed every morning, skipping out to greet the day with unrestrained enthusiasm. But today, the threshold felt different. It was a heavy weight pressing down on my chest, each creak of the floorboard echoing the hollowness that had settled within me. I was leaving, not just the house, but a chapter of my life that was both exhilarating and terrifying – childhood.
According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 70% of adults look back on their childhood with mostly positive memories, highlighting the significance of this stage in shaping our perception of the world and ourselves. [1] However, for every child, there comes a time when the door to this carefree world creaks open, urging them to step outside and into the unknown territory of adulthood. This transition, while inevitable, is rarely smooth, often leaving behind a bittersweet pang of nostalgia for the comfort and familiarity of childhood.
This blog post delves into the complexities of saying goodbye to childhood, exploring the emotions, experiences, and challenges that accompany this inevitable phase shift. We will explore the concept of liminal space and how it can impact individuals during this period of transition, and delve into strategies for coping with the emotional turmoil that often arises during this time. By understanding the universality of this experience, we can navigate this pivotal moment with greater ease and grace, stepping into adulthood with a newfound sense of self-awareness and purpose.
Source:
[1] Pew Research Center. (2019, April 24). A Portrait of Childhood in America. https://www.pewresearch.org/2010/03/11/portrait-of-the-millennials/
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