Childhood is that beautiful phase of life whose true value we often realise only after stepping into adulthood. As children, we are eager to grow up, to become independent and responsible. But once we do, we find ourselves missing those carefree days when life was simple and light.

Back then, we had no real responsibilities. A few tears were enough to solve our problems and our parents were always there to fulfil our wishes. Our world was small, from home to school and back again, followed by hours of playing with friends. Even if we fought, we would forget everything within minutes and start playing again as if nothing had happened.

Summer holidays meant visits to our grandparents’ house, where we were pampered endlessly, surrounded by cousins and laughter. Those were the days when we truly lived in the moment, without worrying about what others thought of us.

One of the most beautiful things about childhood is its innocence. Children are pure-hearted; whatever is in their hearts is expressed honestly in their words. That is why elders often say, “Don’t say this in front of others,” because children, in their innocence, say whatever comes to their mind. There is no hypocrisy, no pretence — just honesty.

We spend our childhood wishing to grow up faster, dreaming of freedom and independence. But once we get there, we quietly start missing the very days we couldn’t wait to leave behind

As we grow older, however, we begin to understand the complexities of the world. We learn about double standards, expectations and social pressures. Even expressing true emotions becomes difficult. For instance, boys are often told not to cry, as if showing emotions makes them weak. Gradually, we start suppressing our feelings instead of expressing them freely as we once did.

With adulthood come responsibilities and with responsibilities comes pressure. Life no longer feels as easy. Days pass quickly, sometimes without rest, and the weight of expectations begins to grow. We realise that not everyone who smiles at us has good intentions, and that fulfilling our desires requires effort, patience and resilience.

At times even our own parents remind us of our responsibilities, not out of harshness, but out of concern for our future. Yet, in those moments, we cannot help but feel nostalgic for the days when no one judged us for resting, playing or simply doing nothing. But time, once passed, never returns.

While writing this, I was reminded of my own childhood, when I would pretend to be sick just to skip school. Today, even if I am genuinely unwell, I hesitate to miss a day because attendance and lectures matter so much at university.

Many of us can relate to this change — as children, we looked for excuses to avoid school, but now we push ourselves to show up, even when it is difficult. For working individuals, the pressure is even greater, where taking a day off can affect their income or job security.

Another major difference between childhood and adulthood lies in our understanding of happiness. As children, we found joy in the smallest things — swinging in the park, making paper boats in the rain, or receiving a simple chocolate. Life was free from stress and worries.

As we grow older, however, our desires increase. We begin to want more, and in that constant search for “more”, we often lose the ability to appreciate what we already have. It is rightly said, “If you want to enjoy life, keep your desires few.” True happiness lies in small moments, not in endless expectations.

Similarly, as children, we would quickly forget hurtful words and move on. But as adults, we tend to hold onto grudges, which only disturbs our own peace and harms our relationships. Learning to forgive and let go, just as we did in childhood, can bring a sense of calm back into our lives.

Another change we experience is becoming overly conscious of ourselves. As children, we were comfortable in our own skin, unaware of beauty standards or social comparisons. But as we grow up, many people begin to feel insecure about their appearance, leading to self-doubt and even social anxiety. It is important to remind ourselves that we are enough as we are, just as we believed in our childhood.

Childhood may never return, but the essence of it can still remain within us. Keeping the inner child alive allows us to stay joyful, curious and emotionally free. We should not become so consumed by responsibilities that we lose that part of ourselves.

True maturity does not mean being serious all the time. In fact, those who are genuinely mature often know how to balance seriousness with lightness. They laugh, enjoy life and handle responsibilities when needed.

Remember, life is not just about surviving — it is about truly living. And to truly live, we must hold on to that childlike joy within us. Because once that inner child fades away, life loses its colour.

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 2nd, 2026