First Day Driving by Julia Loewen

My First Day Driving

by Julia Loewen

At 4 years old, I was anxious to start kindergarten like my older cousins. At 8 years old, I had always dreamed about getting my very own cell phone. At 11 years old, I looked forward to having the freedom to go to restaurants, the movies, or the mall without my parents. At 15, just a few months ago, I had imagined how my life would be when I could drive. Today, as I cruised down the streets for the first two hours before I receive my permit, I realized that all of those things I had once desired, I have. I never imagined myself driving because I have become so accustomed to someone else driving me everywhere. It had never truly occurred until I had my hands on the wheel that I am already 16 years old, only 4 hours away from legally being able to drive (with an adult of course). Not only was I learning about how to drive, but I realized that I rarely live in the moment. As Mr. Gilmartin told me, "Stop looking so far ahead, focus on the road you are driving on" I realized that it is so easy for people to look too far ahead in life, so much so that they miss the things that they are driving through at that moment. Until this morning, I could not wait get my license, and I wished my 17th birthday would come faster. I was oblivious to all of the great things in my life as a 16 year old. Having a permit definitely has it's differences from having a license, but I am going to take my time with my permit, enjoying the views of the roads with an adult in the passenger seat.