Kids will be Adults (or vs.versa)

I'm confused.

When do kids become adults? This, as it turns out, is not a simple, simple question. And, when left unresolved, this question can create unwanted tension and confusion.

When I grew up, kids become adults around the age of 16. If not then, definitely upon graduation from high school at age 18, when headed off to college or to become part of the working world. After graduating from college, there was no doubt that you were an adult. This meant you were invited to sit at the adult table and you were expected to carry your load. In return, you were afforded the respect that was given to adults. Adulthood was something we strove to achieve -- and you had to step up and show that you were worthy to be treated as an adult.

We all know that being an adult isn't all fun and games. You no longer get presents for your birthday from your relatives. Perhaps you'll get a card or phone call to convey appropriate greetings and best wishes. You no longer got money when relatives visit. After all, you are now a member of the wage-earning population. And, when you visit, you are expected to lend a hand when there is cooking and clean-up to be done, or other chores to be shared. Heck, you wanted to help out -- it was the correct and proper thing to do.

Something has changed since I made this transition. Today's young adults seem to want to ride the fence for as long as possible to take advantage of both worlds. Well, who wouldn't want that? If you can still get presents, have the others do the cooking and cleaning, and also your laundry, you win!

Well, perhaps... but, I honestly don't see it that way.

I don't think anyone wins in this scenario. I think the younger folks don't learn how to carry their fair share of the weight -- which is a lot lighter if we all lend a hand. And, one day, they will be left to do everything for themselves because we will be gone (or too worn out to do it anymore.) Then what happens? Who knows? I don't, but think this arrangement stinks.