The Wheel

                                                        Life really is like learning to drive.                                                               What I mean by that is, it's a constant learning process. I know more now than I did when I first started, but I'm still not the best. There are far more experienced drivers out there too. My age reads as a "Student Driver" sign, which of course screams, PASS ME, to those driving and STEP ON ME, to all those older than me. Sometimes it's exhausting, all the yelling that comes from the passenger seat, and the back seats too. It's seemingly never-ending. I have all kinds of passengers, they come from all different backgrounds and places, they all have their own way of thinking about things-- and they all were taught to drive by different people. Which of course, means they all drive in their own unique way. They all have their own little quirks and rituals when getting behind the wheel. It's funny that how a person drives tells you so much about them. Sitting close to the wheel, posture perfect, and head swiveling? New driver. They're still figuring it out. Leaned back, music loud, and foot on the dash? They think they've got it down. They should know better. Both hands on the wheel, relaxed but cautious, and that right hand flying out over your chest? They've been around the block more than a few times. They've had a couple wrecks themselves. Left hand on the wheel, window always cracked, and country music playing? Now these people, they actually know what they're doing. 

We learn and grow as we age I think, or at least hope. I halfway feel like I'm 30 on some days, while others I'm about 12. I think that's just how being a teenager feels. I don't think I'm ever gonna get the full teen experience, the drinking and staying out late and sneaking out to hook up, but maybe I've got something even better. Right? I'm responsible, I'm kind, I know right from wrong, and I'm God-fearing. What more is there to life? Sometimes, I wish being a kid had been an option for me, before I got a job, started taking college classes, and assumed all the responsibility I could. I don't think I would be the same person I am today though. I know I wouldn't be.

-Ava