As high school graduates hit their 18th birthday, they assume — as if by the wave of a magic wand — they become adults, and are no longer accountable to their families. Being an adult has less to do with turning 18, and more to do with making responsible decisions.
Staying out till odd hours of the night, dropping out of school, believing they can survive without money and seeking glory and celebrity in exotic locations are not reflective of adult behavior. These are escapist ideals not based in reality, and have the potential to create heartache for parents and loved ones.
Unfortunately, sometimes young people lose sight of the fact that the poor choices they make have poor consequences — not only for them, but also for their families.
If young people want to be treated as adults, they have to behave accordingly.
Otherwise, age is just a number. And making poor decisions is not the exclusive domain of 18-year-olds. Been there, done that.
About Hemant Rustogi