Hey guys, it’s Kaden here. Something has been on my mind lately, so I figured I’d share. I’m one of those people that writes about what I know. The problem is, what if I don’t know? 

I’m currently in one of those periods in life where I genuinely don’t know where it will take me. That’s scary. I’m used to being guided and having a clear path right in front of me–to not have that is terrifying.

Growing up is one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. I act like I’m the most confident person in the world when in reality, I’m afraid of getting hurt. I’m afraid of talking to people, I’m afraid of stepping out of my comfort zone, and I’m afraid of the future and all its unknowns. I know I can take that last statement and put an optimistic spin on it, but for myself, not knowing what the future holds is unnerving.

Writing is my therapy. I don’t write for you and I don’t write for The Review–I write for myself. Shocking, I know. I find comfort in expressing my thoughts in my Notes app. I don’t have to be worried about being judged or thought of differently for expressing my feelings, even if multiple people see it in the end. I genuinely do not care. I’m free from the world, able to hide, and to feel like I’m being heard. 

Don’t take this the wrong way, I’m fine. I’ve always been fine. I know deep down that I am a very strong person. I don’t think I would be able to be this vulnerable with you if I wasn’t. I have thoughts and emotions just like you, so I’m hoping you can relate to me.

To round this all off because I know you all don’t have time for this sob story, I can now see why childhood was one of the best times in life. Furthermore, why adults say to never grow up. It’s because children haven’t experienced life and the truth that it holds.

I’m stronger now than I’ve ever been, and I wouldn’t change that for the world. However, I’ve also been hurt more than I’d ever care to admit. I’ve battled and continue to battle, but I’m curious– is the wear and tear worth the reward? What do you think?