Jenipher

Okay, you know what I have to start by saying that even as ‘adults’ which is what we’ll be referred to as a few years from now (or are already referred to that way) is a term that should be carefully used. Being an adult doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re banned from all sorts of fun and have to live this extremely boring life! NO!! No. No. No!!

Being an adult does mean that you have to be responsible but you can still ‘let your inner child out’ once in a while! That sounds good, doesn’t it!

The “act your own age” bit is overrated. Am I right?

My goodness there’s really a lot I must show you guys that I’ve done this past month with my cousin. That will certainly explain what I mean by letting the ‘inner child’ out once in a while

Laurenelle

Oh, I could go on for HOURS about this topic because I am extremely passionate about it, and anyone who knows me reasonably well also knows that I will relate this to the themes that inspired Disneyland. Thanks for posting! My most essential response is that there is a huge difference between growing up and growing old. Like author J.R.R. Tolkien said,

“Children are meant to grow up, and not to become Peter Pans. Not to lose innocence and wonder; but to proceed on the appointed journey: that journey upon which it is certainly not better to travel hopefully than to arrive, though we must travel hopefully if we are to arrive.”

We do need to grow up because growth is essential to human development and necessary to function in modern society. We don’t, however, need to abandon the wonder and amazement that accompanies the discoveries we make as children of even simple pleasures like ice cream and toys. Retaining the ability to enjoy those things makes adult life all the more enjoyable and provides comfort and reassurance in a world where nostalgia is sometimes one of the only ways to deal with the less positive aspects of reality. Society may have certain expectations about how we are supposed to act, and while I can’t argue with what is considered “mature” and “polite” in American culture, I believe that it is ultimately up to the individual to live his or her life within the loose constraints of social decorum. That’s not to say that adults should go around tackling kids, but that there is nothing wrong with an adult enjoying the simple pleasures of childhood. That’s why Disneyland exists and thrives – it takes people back to the nostalgic images of childhood, comfort, and fantasy, and tells adults that it’s okay to have fun in that safe environment, no matter what society dictates is appropriate for adults vs. children.

supersarah12

I despise acting my own age. I would much rather go to Walmart and play hide and seek than go to my Colonial America class. I would rather go play paintball than study for my midterms.

Although I do realize there’s a time where I do have to act like the 21 (almost 22) year old that I am. But I would still rather be a kid and I dont wanna grow up! I’M A TOYS-R-US KID!

Marilyne

hahaha, that’s a good one. I used to look at the big kids, like who were 18(:O) when I was younger and thought that they were so cool lol. Then I got 18 and realised they were not that old or cool lol. I also thought people from maybe 20 and up were immediately transformed or something into serious and responsible all of sudden. Then I got 20 and got to hang out with “the serious older ones” lol….I never had so much fun and laughed that hard. And I think it’s so great that it is that way. Having fun has no age. It’s actually kinda sad to witness people letting their fun side when they grow up.
Regarding Disney movies…we loved them as a child..then came the time where you were not cool if you were still loving them…like in high school, and then, hold on Disney fans, it all comes back to be cute and fun hehe^^

G

*takes a deep breath* Here goes!

Jenipher-You know you owe me some adventure stories now, woman haha!

Laurenelle-Great quote and great answer! Disney sounds like a good trip right about now haha.

Sayrah-*cues Mission Impossible theme*

Marilyne-I know what you mean, haha. I used to think like 14-year-olds were so big and awesome when I was in kindergarten, then I turned 14 and I didn’t seem all the different, lol.

Jenipher

@G: I’ll share ‘em with you and you can post them, how does that sound?

G

Sounds awesome, Jenny!!!

Cnd14

I know! The other day I was rockin out to the little mermaid soundtrack and I guess people heard it through my headphones and then everyone started laughing at me! Like OMG I LOVE THE LITTLE MERMAID AND I’M PROUD OF IT! so what if it’s for kids. I don’t care

G

You go girl!