Growing-up

When does one really grow-up?

Ask this simple question and you will get a variety of answers, such as:
When one turns 18 or 21.
When one reaches the legal age of majority.
when one completes schooling.
When one marries.
When one becomes a parent.
...

I think I've found the answer.

I recently lost my father, more than 20 years after I first lost my mother. At 93, his departure was not unexpected, yet there is no diminishing of grief and sorrow in the family. Although my father was inactive for the last few years, yet his just being there as a family elder was a source of comfort and inspiration for all of us - his children, grand-children and great grand-children. It is the first time in my life that I am without that loving, caring, protective parental cover over me. And now, when I am in my 50s, married for over 25 years, two adult children, over the peak of my career, it finally dawned on me that I have now grown-up!

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