before and now

Hmmmm... a young bright thing just zoomed past. Clickety click click of the heels with a very purposeful rhythmn. For a min, I paused in my marking and thought - hey, I used to be like that too! With a big sparkle in my eyes, and a thousand-watt smile, I used to stride along with great confidence in the earlier years too. =) Well, not to say that I am not so now I guess.. but it's really a little different. I think... I now walk with confidence still, but also with a sense of 'weight' (not sure if it's the best word). Not quite bursting with unbridled, light-headed optimism and idealism although still hopeful and gunning for the best. The gait now is tinged with a big shade of realism, of 'knowing the constraints'...

Perhaps this is what they call 'maturity'? Not a fabulous state if you ask me, for I think the child-like innocence and cheery sanguinity will always be tops. The believing in Santa Claus, Enid Blyton tales and all things nice and sweet... no wonder few like to grow up.