What were you doing when you were 15?
One evening, while I took a stroll on my street, I observed a young boy. He had a piano and a guitar with him. He played the piano so perfectly, I couldn't help but dance to the rhythm he played.
Out of curiosity, I approached him, and asked how old he was. He told me he was 15. I was shocked. I pointed to the guitar and asked if he could play, and he said he could.
Right there, he picked up the guitar and played it like a pro. I was fascinated, mostly by the fact that he was that good at playing those instruments at that age. He was indeed a pro at 15. He told me about how he could also play the trumpets, and he usually gets paid to cover events.
I was even more marveled. He made me reminisce on my own life. I thought about what I was doing when I was his age. At the age of 15, all I knew was my books. All I did was study and go to school. I hadn't even dreamt about making money at that age. I had not figured out what career path I was going to choose.
Back then, I thought school was the only way one could make it in life, so I didn't bother with any skill.
Thankfully, it's never too late for one to build themselves. Even if you miss something in your childhood or teenage years, there's always a chance to go for your dream in adulthood, even though it might be a bit more difficult.
I am particularly delighted that parents these days encourage their kids to learn skills and chase what they are passionate about in addition to school, as was the case with the young boy I came across.
Be that as it may, the major point here is that we should realize that some of the dreams we had during our teenage years can still become a reality now that we are adults. It's never too late.
I've seen people who went back to school in their 40s and 50s to acquire the degree they actually really wanted. Some older persons were humble enough to sit among younger ones in order to learn a skill.
At the same time, I would like to point out that it's never too early to learn something or go after what we want. In fact, the earlier the better. This is the approach I will take in raising my own kids when the time comes.
I will conclude by asking the simple, yet thought-provoking question: what were you doing when you were 15?
This is such a beautiful and reflective read. That 15-year-old sounds incredibly talented. It's true -seeing young people so skilled and driven can really make us pause and reflect on our own journeys. I like how you tied it back to the idea that it is never too late to start, and never too early either. That mindset shift -valuing both education and skills- is so powerful and I agree.
Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed the post
This really made me pause and think. At 15, I was still figuring out who I was, let alone picking up a guitar or making money! That boy is proof that age is never the limit it’s mindset and opportunity. I love your reminder that it’s never too late OR too early to start building your dream life.
Yes, it's a post to make one reflect. Thanks for reading.
You are welcome