The Wisdom

At just 25 years old, I often find myself reflecting on how far I’ve come in terms of maturity. Despite my relatively young age, I know my mindset and life experiences have shaped me into someone who thinks and behaves far beyond my years. I’ve always believed that respect is a cornerstone of human interaction. It’s something that should be given freely, not earned. For me, respect is universal; it’s not something you withhold until someone proves their worth. It’s a way of showing decency to everyone, no matter their background or history.

This belief stems from an understanding of the complexities of human behavior. You never truly know what someone is going through or what they’re capable of, which is why respect even if it’s just a simple nod or a greeting can go a long way. Even with possible threats, I approach situations carefully. I respect them by keeping my distance, but I also don’t underestimate what they could do. It’s a balance I’ve learned to maintain over time, one that keeps me grounded and aware of my surroundings.

I don’t hang out where trouble lingers, and I’m careful about the company I keep. My circle of friends is intentionally small. I know plenty of people and greet them with a fist bump or a nod if we cross paths, but that doesn’t mean we’re close. To me, friendship is about trust and respect on a deeper level. I can count my true friends on one hand. Even my best friend and I don’t talk every day, but when we do, the bond is strong and unshakable.

Part of my maturity comes from my experiences in life. I’ve learned the hard way that if you give some people an inch, they’ll take a mile. That’s why I set boundaries, not out of disrespect but out of self-respect. It’s a lesson I carry with me, one that reminds me to navigate relationships carefully while still offering respect to everyone I encounter.

I’ve often wondered how my maturity compares to my peers. Based on the depth of my thoughts and the way I handle myself, I’d say my mindset is closer to someone 10 or 15 years older than me. It’s not arrogance—it’s just a reflection of the challenges I’ve faced and the lessons I’ve taken from them. When I hit 30, I imagine I’ll have the maturity of someone in their 40s, not because I’ve aged faster but because I’ve absorbed so much from life already.

This maturity isn’t just about relationships or social interactions. It extends to my understanding of the world. I’ve always been fascinated by subjects like sociology and human behavior. Social studies was one of my favorite classes in school, and I earned a respectable grade in my exams. While I’ve only graduated high school, I believe my grasp of these topics rivals that of a college sophomore.

I find myself drawn to the complexities of society and culture. I’m particularly fascinated by ancient civilizations, like those of Egypt and Greece, and their myths and beliefs. Understanding how people think and act, both in history and today, is something that deeply intrigues me.

I’ve even considered pursuing a degree in sociology someday. It feels like a natural extension of the way I already see the world. I know I’d have to start small, maybe with community college, and work my way up, but the idea excites me. Learning more about human behavior and societal structures could not only enrich my life but also allow me to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.

Being mature beyond my years doesn’t mean I have everything figured out. I’m still growing, still learning. But I know my ability to reflect, adapt, and respect others sets me apart. It’s a strength that carries me through life’s challenges, and I’m proud of the person I’ve become. Respect, after all, is the foundation of everything, and I’ll continue to give it freely both to others and to myself.