Graduate Reflects on Bittersweet Transition from Childhood to Adulthood
As Isabella Santiago nears graduation, she contemplates the bittersweet transition from childhood to adulthood, a journey that has seen many seek to preserve youth, as seen in Oscar Wilde's 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. Throughout history, humans have been captivated by the idea of eternal youth. From Greek mythology's Selene putting her lover Endymion into an endless sleep, to modern-day attempts at cryonics, the allure of preserving youth is undeniable. This desire is not just about physical appearance, as seen in Wilde's novel, but also about holding onto imagination and openness, as Peter Pan encourages Wendy Darling to join him in Neverland. However, this pursuit can also hinder personal growth. Santiago reflects that nostalgia can be a powerful tool to reconnect with one's past and guide growth, but clinging to youth can prevent one from embracing adulthood. The quest for eternal youth, while understandable, should not come at the cost of personal growth. As Santiago approaches graduation, she, like many before her, must navigate the conflicting feelings between childhood and the future, ultimately choosing to embrace adulthood while keeping her imagination and openness alive.
