Growing up is technically defined as the maturing of the body and mind. This process cannot be avoided; it is part and parcel of daily life. We all have to grow up whether we like it or not, as there is very likely no Neverland for any of us to run to. As with man other good things in life, growing up does have its agonies and misgivings, often they are felt by people other than oneself.

From the age of innocence, babyhood, the strange and wonderful process of growing has already begun. The party under discussion grows rapidly, and in the twinkling of an eye, he or she is two years old and full of inquisitiveness.

Toddlers, as such, have the ability to pick up habits, good or bad, from their elders. A younger sibling of mine enjoys intently observing me at the guitar, painstakingly adjusting the tuning knobs to obtain the perfect sound.

The instant I step out of the room, the little boy is upon the guitar, wrenching the tuning knobs, trying to obtain his own ” perfect sound “, I suppose. This behavior more than infuriates me, and my self-control is only barely able to haul me back. It is comforting to know that at least, he will outgrow this phase soon enough.

Beyond toddlerhood, is the entirely new era of childhood. Childhood is a time for irrational and hyperactive behavior, and I suppose I have been both.

At one stage, being six ears and full of myself, I was convinced that watches were meant to be worn around the elbow. My mother was much amused by my steadfast conviction to this illogical belief, but still she refused to wear my watch for me around the elbow. At this I threw a tantrum, crying, stamping my feet and swearing to disown my own mother. She relented, of course, and for the rest of the day I went traipsing around with my left arm stiffly by my side, straight at the elbow.

At ten years of age many girls start to mature, but this is unlikely the case for boys. At ten years of age I saw myself as smart, tall and handsome. I also thought I could hurl vulgarities upon anyone I chose, including teachers. This ill-founded notion managed to get me into deep trouble once, and severe reprimanding to go with it. Up till now, I am still grateful that my form teacher did not inform my parents about that not-so-minor offense.

In two years, a ten-year-old turns twelve. This is the very beginning of adolescence, the sweet age of “love at first sight”, hairy things and worse, pimples. Who can forget the moment when the eyes of the person you ‘adore’ meet yours? You are twelve years old and four-and-a-half feet tall, but you jolly well are big enough to hold her by the hand! Now, if only she knew….. such is the insanity of a twelve-year-old crush.

At fourteen, pimples start to sprout like mushrooms. One must take pains to curb their impossibly rapid appearance. It is not wrong to say that sometimes they are the most painful part about growing up. The much-loathed red boils can destroy the self-confidence of many young teenagers. However, as the body begins to slow down its rapid development, pimple problems gradually fade away.

All too soon, one is already sixteen. I do not know what lies beyond this road. All I know is that growing up will be one heck of an adventure.