Stages Of Life

Last year, when I was planning to buy my first shortsighted eye glasses, a question popped up in my mind: does this mean I am entering another stage of my life? You know, just like when you first enter school, have your first period, get your first job, get married and so on and so on. Does the fact that somebody begins to need shortsighted glasses mean anything?

That question reminded me of a conversation I overheard some 25 years ago, when I was in junior high, on my way to Bandung with some friends.

We were traveling by the most popular car rental back then, the 4848. It was a big old Cadillac that can accommodate 5 passengers and a driver. My two friends and I sat at the back seat, while another two middle-aged men sat in the front seat. I think we were somewhere in Puncak, my two friends started falling asleep to the sound of raindrops, when I overheard the two gentlemen talking about stages in life.

One man said that there are stages in life that changes every 8 years. This is how he described each stage as I remember it:

0 – 8 years old:

One has just begun to breath; they need a lot of help while trying to figure out about everything that is happening around them. Questions, questions, questions

8 – 16:
This is the period when one becomes more aware of her/himself. They have questions about themselves and a lot of times feel awkward and uncomfortable with their physical changes. Often, they find themselves in trouble, in school as well as at home

16 – 24:

One will fall in love with her/himself. It’s ‘narcist time’. They just love to see themselves in the mirror. Girls just want to be pretty. Boys try to be attractive for girls.

24 – 32:

A period when one has no fear in life. They will try everything, go anywhere, hike the highest mountain. It’s time to proof who they are. By this time, they will get their first job and start a family.

32 – 40:

Life is work. Work harder, earn more.

40 – 48:

Life begins. They would already have a steady career. Those who have a strong family bond will switch their focus to their spouse and children. However, some may have difficulties in marriage and start a new relationship.

48 – 56:

Time to enjoy life with what’s earned from their hard work. It’s time to travel around the world or buy a new big house.

56 – 64:

Life slows down. Time to reflect on oneself and become wiser and more religious.

64 – onwards:

Back to the first stage. They become dependent again while trying to figure out how life and the world have changed right in front of their eyes.

I believe what the man said makes a lot of sense. And knowing about these stages of life will help you understand where your life is going and therefore prepare yourself to face it.

Now, in what stage are you now, honey? Questions, questions, questions? No wonder....

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Picture from here