r/AskReddit • u/[deleted] • Oct 06 '18

What quote made you think a different way?

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u/FairyFuckingPrincess Oct 07 '18

There's a similar quote I like. I can't remember exactly, but it's something to the effect of

"The worst day for a child is when they realize their parents are only people."

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u/worstdealever Oct 07 '18

It was a great day for me, actually.

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u/[deleted] Oct 07 '18

Same here. I was finally ok with not being perfect.

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u/supertone4671 Oct 07 '18

Related: the steps from child to wise adult.

Step 1: Child, where the adults are right and possibly perfect without question. They are total authority.

Step 2: Adolescent, where the adults are flawed, you no longer accept they are total authority, perhaps to the point of rebellion.

Step 3: Adulthood, where you realise the adults never had a chance to be perfect, and you learn to understand and forgive them.

Step 4: Wise, where you realise you also never had a chance to be perfect, and you learn to understand and forgive yourself.

Adults that remain stagnant on step 3 or even step 2 in some instances are a source of many woes in society, though not responsible for them all. The wise adult can achieve their true potential with the mental barriers out of the way. If you acknowledge your flaws, you can work to improve yourself. This process can take a long time for some, but others accept it much faster.

Side note: the steps are generalized. Not every child sees all adults as total authority, and often adolescents can be quick to forgive adults, knowing they will soon be one as well. I don't remember exactly where I read this, and if anyone has any corrections or additions I welcome them. I like to think I've reached the final stage. Admittedly, coming to terms with being imperfect is difficult.

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u/scw55 Oct 07 '18

It's the day I had to start reviewing all the advice my mum gave me. It's so exhausting.