Would the 8th grade version of you want to kick the adult you?

I went home this weekend for Mother’s Day. (And no, not begrudgingly, even though it is a pain to get to the suburbs from Manhattan, especially when I don’t have a car. But I could I never say no to a Hallmark holiday celebration, or a barbecue.) Anyway, when I was showing my 2-year-old cousin my room, which has remained a shrine to my 8th grade self–full of books and journals and diaries (and Absolut ads and posters of Gavin Rossdale)–I got to thinking. I’m actually in the profession I wanted to be in when I was in junior high school.

The consummate professional.

But it doesn’t always happen like that, does it?

My boyfriend wanted to be the first baseman for the Yankees. Then he wanted to be a lawyer. He even majored in poli-sci. He now works as a television producer.

My brother wanted to drive a bus. My dad didn’t like that so much. Anyway, my brother now works as a computer…something. designer? programmer? I’m not sure. Something with computers though, and not with school buses.

What happens with those dreams we had when we were young? Where are all the cowboys, firemen, presidents of the United States?

I bet your 8th grade self didn’t think you’d end up where you are.

But, maybe that’s for the best.

After all, you’re allergic to horses and sweat really easily. And you want a career, not just to work for four-eight years.

Maybe the 8th grader in you wouldn’t want the career you have. But what do 8th graders know anyway?

The adult in you certainly wouldn’t want to be in 8th grade again.

I know I wouldn’t.

*shudder*

What do you think?

Jessica Livingston
Managing Editor
jessica.livingston@e-bim.com