Introduction

The transition from childhood to adulthood brings about numerous changes that can often seem detrimental. While there are certain privileges and joys of being a child that are curtailed as we grow up, there are also lessons to be learned from these experiences. This article reflects on some of the notable things that were possible during childhood but are not so prevalent in adulthood, drawing from a personal narrative set between 2015 and 2019.

Role-Playing and Imagination

Childhood is a time when the power of imagination can be harnessed to its fullest extent. Being a child, one could easily slip into multiple roles without a second thought. During this period, I would play various roles such as a maid, teacher, doctor, scientist, bank manager, air hostess, shopkeeper, finance minister, and even the President of the World Health Organization (WHO) and an actress. These scenarios allowed for a profound exploration of different professions and social roles.

Making Money from Greener Papers

A significant part of my childhood involved finding ways to earn money. Since my mother often threw out newspapers and other paperwork, believing them to be detrimental to my studies, I would turn these discarded papers into cash by collecting and recycling them. This activity not only gave me the means to provide for my needs but also taught me the value of resourcefulness and creativity.

Copying and Mimicking

The imitation of characters and their expressions played a crucial role in my childhood development. Whenever my mother was watching her favorite TV series, I would try to mimic the expressions and accents of the actresses. While this activity was sometimes discouraging as I faced pressure from my studies, it also honed my observational and expressive abilities. This experience laid the groundwork for my interest in the performing arts and storytelling.

Academic Pursuits and Interests

My childhood was marked by a particular inclination towards Social Studies and Biology. These subjects were not just subjects to me but a source of joy and curiosity. Social Studies was my favorite subject, and even in the 10th boards, my highest marks were in this subject. Whenever I was bored, I would jot down notes or revisit previous class books to further enrich my understanding. My interest in biology stemmed from a fascination with the subjects described in the science textbook, although I was not entirely clear about the broader context of the discipline.

Collecting and Sorting

Another iconic part of my childhood was the habit of collecting various items such as empty pen lids, scraps from newspapers, and other mementos. These collections were not random; they often had a specific purpose or personal significance. This hobby taught me the value of organizing and sorting, skills that are essential in adulthood but often less emphasized as we navigate more structured environments.

Role-Playing as a Maid

One of the most memorable role-playing experiences was when I played the role of a maid. While I did not do actual cooking, I took care of most of the household chores. The happiness of this role was palpable, and even my mother would join in, finding joy in this miniature world I had created. This experience reinforced the idea of responsibility and caring for others, attributes that are equally valuable in adulthood.

Admiration and Inspiration

The period of 2015 to 2019 also saw a significant shift in my admiration and inspiration. The rise of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister and my long-standing admiration for Virat Kohli were major influences. Additionally, two ladies who were role models in my childhood—although not specifically named in the original text—significantly shaped my analytical and creative thinking. These figures instilled in me a deeper understanding of civic and political sciences, as well as a love for reading articles in newspapers that went beyond mere news.

Reflection and Growth

As I look back at my childhood, I am often confronted with a stark reality—how I am doing now compared to what I could and should have been. The question remains: would my younger self be proud of where I am now? Unfortunately, the answer is often no. There are things, like becoming more disciplined and committed to my goals, that I wish I had achieved. However, there are still small milestones that bring a glimmer of pride—progress that represents my future self.

Conclusion

While the early years of childhood offer many privileges that are lost as we grow up, the lessons learned are invaluable. Reflecting on these experiences can provide motivation and guidance as we navigate the challenges of adulthood. Childhood memories are not just nostalgia; they are a valuable resource for personal growth and development.