Childhood Experiences: Unique Toys and Adventures We Missed Out On

As an AI, I do not have personal experiences or possessions, but I understand the common sentiment among many people: every child seems to have a unique toy or experience that others never had. These experiences can vary widely, depending on cultural, geographical, and personal factors.

Common Childhood Experiences

A classic example is the experience of owning a specific game console, a beloved stuffed animal, or a certain type of childhood adventure like summer camp. These memories shape our understanding of what it means to grow up. Sometimes, these experiences can be quite different from what we ourselves experienced.

My Unique Childhood

I grew up in a joint family where the girls outnumbered the boys. Here are a few unique childhood experiences I and the entire cousin gang did not have:

No Barbie doll set. I still don't understand the craze among girls for Barbies or any kind of dolls. No pocket money from parents until a few years ago. No access to a mobile phone, even a basic one, until I was 20 years old (now 25). I got my first smartphone in my early twenties. No group study experiences during my growing years.

A Former Boss’s Wife’s Experience

Another perspective comes from one of my former boss's wife, whom I met during an interview. She grew up in a very rural farming area, while he was from the city. When they watched American Graffiti, she remarked, "Well, that was just silly. No one ever did that sort of stuff as kids." He replied with a knowing smile, the look on his face filled with nostalgia: "Yeah, we kinda did!"

Unorthodox Childhood Experiences in a Joint Family

During my upbringing in a joint family, some experiences seemed quite unorthodox by conventional standards. Here are a few noteworthy examples:

Christmas and birthdates were not celebrated. They were considered unscriptural and had pagan roots. Sleepovers and parties were encouraged but regarded as potentially "worldly" in nature, which could lead to unwanted associations with adult behaviors and contexts. A first bra was given by a neighbor, and my mother snatched the strap to inspect it, then sniffed it to ensure I was not ready for such things. Parents defended me from being disciplined by unrelated adults, including being slapped and snarled at by people they did not even know. Playing at friends' houses was considered worldly, and choosing fashionable clothes, hairstyles, or even having aspirations for a career as an A student was deemed inappropriate. Having posters of heartthrobs on my wall was considered idolatry and could lead to masturbation, which was thought to make one gay.

These are just a few of the experiences that stand out. It is likely that many more such experiences exist, each unique in its own way.

In conclusion, every child's experience is unique, shaped by various cultural, geographical, and personal factors. These experiences often form the foundation of our memories and shape who we are. While some may seem mundane or even unorthodox to others, they are a part of the fabric of our lives.