The Bird Taking Flight into Life

Everyone experiences being eighteen at least once—a time no longer defined by childhood, yet not fully embraced by adulthood. It’s an age filled with aspirations and plans, joyfully strapping on a backpack and stepping into life. Like a fledgling bird spreading its wings for the first time under the vast sky, like a fish leaping into the endless ocean. We long to challenge ourselves with new experiences, to soar freely through the world. But storms may suddenly arise, sweeping us into the twists and turns of life. Those who persevere will overcome, rising to achieve success. Those who falter will surrender to fate, letting life push them wherever it pleases—missing the steps toward triumph and ending up in failure, judged and pitied by others, retreating into their shell like a slow-moving snail.

I, too, was once eighteen, stepping into the world with the fire of youth, eager to build a future with my own hands. I’ve tasted hardship and adversity. There were moments when I wanted to give up, to let fate take its course. But I kept reminding myself not to surrender, not to let setbacks stop me. You know, life can be harsh. There are times when we swallow our tears, force a smile to hide our vulnerability, and carry on with courage. We comfort ourselves, saying tomorrow will be better, smoother, and more successful. And eventually, the result is exactly what I had hoped for. I wish the same for you.

Have you ever, while blaming fate, taken a moment to look around at the people beside you? How are they? How do they live? Are they doing well? When you feel like collapsing, like giving up, look at those with lives far more incomplete than yours. Smile—because you are lucky. You are whole, without missing pieces. Be joyful for the future ahead, and walk firmly hand in hand with hope into tomorrow. When you look back and smile at what you’ve achieved, know that where you stand will be your place of success.

If I could return to being eighteen, I would gladly burn bright once more—burn with passion and desire. I would live for my youth all over again, so that in the days to come, I would have no regrets.