Adolescence, all over again

You’re twenty-nine years old.  Looking around you begin to see all of your friends pairing up and moving on to the next stage in life.  For a while in your late twenties you have it made in the shade, you are able to enjoy the benefits of adulthood.  Once you start rounding thirty years old however; Things start to change and before you know it, you’re back into the throws of adolescence.

What I mean by adolescence is the period of growth that all men experience.  Whether your eighteen and striking out on your own at college, or you’re twenty-five making long term plans, or forty-something trying to re-invent yourself after a divorce, you are always growing and always experiencing adolescence.  That’s right, the pimples may be gone but you are in a constant state of flux.

Now however, for me at least, you start to feel some pressure after a summer of weddings or a the news of pending babies.  Relatives at thanksgiving always asking “When are you going to get married?”  or “Are you seeing someone? when do we get to meet her?”

Damnit, there is enough pressure in this world on young men to be successful without adding the element of feeling like a black sheep.  You start to feel like something is wrong with you.  All the friends you used to go out drinking with are now in pyjamas at home for ‘movie night’ or taking the kids to the water-park on the weekend.  Eventually, you’re the lone ranger at the monthly dinner party.  The only single guy.

The important thing here, is not to panic.  This is my point here, and I will highlight it so that you don’t fall into the classic trap.  AVOID SETTLING.

Family pressure, the black sheep mentality, and society in general will make you feel like you need to pair up, and pair up ASAP.  Don’t give in.  Don’t settle for someone who doesn’t absolutly, positively, light up your world.  Take your time, enjoy it (and enjoy the women you meet along the way), even if it takes some time.