We always ask kids – what do you want to be when you grow up when we should be asking – what does being a grown up mean to you?
To me it’s not reaching a certain age or milestone. Not an accumulation of achievements or wealth. It’s a mindset. To be grown is to be intentional. Free of the reactionary and self centred tendencies of youth. A gradual awareness of what needs to be done each day and taking care to do it well.
When you were young, who did you look up to and think – yes that’s an adult, that’s who I want to be?
My role models were my Grandma and Great Aunts who took pride in the art of running their homes. Full fridges, fresh bread and pantries full of preserves ready to feed whoever might drop in. Beds made lovingly with handmade quilts, nightstands with books of poetry and sachets of potpourri. It didn’t look like a magazine but it felt like home. A curation of cozy.
My parents friends and family who were impeccably dressed for any occasion. Who discussed newsworthy issues and cultural events – politics, plays, concerts, and museums while mixing the perfect after work cocktail or knowing the right wine pairing for any given meal.
My Mom and Dad who didn’t hesitate to do what needed to be done for us, even at the expense of their own comfort. Easing us through the awkwardness of growing up while giving us room to explore our creativity unhindered.
Adulthood is not something to be feared but rather – the craft of life. Taking pride in daily tasks as if each were pieces of art. That is the ultimate goal of my journey to a slow and intentional way of living.