I used to think growing up
was like filling up.
An invisible line inside my brain
climbing higher and higher
as I poured knowledge in,
and eventually it would hit the top,
marking the summit of my youth.
I would then be able
to tackle all problems
with the contents inside me,
like a well-stocked shed.
How lucky that I met with
the generous whispers
of those few adults who dared
to explain that there is no finish line.
Only a few important gates along the way,
like the moment you realize
you have the courage
to admit what you don’t know
and the discernment
to know where to look.