Childish Things
Many times when engaging conversation with “adults” of all ages, shortly after I mention some of my hobbies (comic books, video games, cartoons, etc) I’m given a response akin to “…when I became an adult, I put away childish things”. Yes, I recognize the quote that they’re referencing. And yes, I also recognize that their paraphrase is meant to be subtly insulting. Meanwhile, I’m not nearly so irked by the backhanded comment–cuz really, fuck ‘em; by virtue of their snobby disposition, they’re a lesser person than I–as I am by the ignorant misappropriation of the quote itself.
The quote, in its entirety: “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
I’ve most often heard the “childish things” in reference to actual objects one might associate with a child. Toys, games, and the like. So it is suggested that a grown man who enjoys playing with toys or games is to be considered childish. Well, let’s back our attention up to the beginning of that quote. People who misuse its words are applying their own context to the term “childish things” rather than applying the context that is set up within the quote itself. One can see that the original author’s concern was toward one’s mental state, not personal passions. It’s about maturity…becoming a tempered, responsible adult.
So yeah…I read comics and play video games, just as I did when I was a child. But you know what? I pay my bills. I work hard in my career and I’m pretty damn good at it. I excel in life, despite my guilty pleasures. That is what makes a man (or woman) over a child. Those who put their hobbies ahead of their responsibilities, friends, or family…those people have yet to put away childish things and matured. The people who hand me those perverted words have not yet put away the childish attitude of “Nya, nyaaa… I’m better than yooooou are!” Grow up. And allow yourself to have some fun!
