The Ways I Grow Up:

An Essay Based on To Kill a Mockingbird

English Class

11/4/10

Cassie Seidel

Pine Point School

Essay #7

            Isn’t it lovely how a child is so innocent, how children can just crawl into someone’s lap and tell a story, just like Jem before he reached his 12^th birthday? Have you ever seen an adult like that? I do not think so. I think growing up is one of the most amazing changes in a person’s life.
        

Jem and I are exceptional examples of what growing up is all about.  I am maturing in many different ways. One example is I have grown to be an outstanding skater. With age and practice, I started winning medals in many separate events, competitive skating opportunities like dance, figures, and freestyle.  I know that winning came from hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck. I have also grown in my language skills. Before I went to Pine Point, I didn’t even know how to say “hello” in French, but now I can say many things like, “Je vais faire une promenade au pied.” (I am going to take a walk) I can also speak a little German, Spanish, Swansi, Swana, and Xhosa. Jem, a character in To Kill A Mockingbird, is also a growing into a man. For example, before his twelfth birthday, he would not think about touching someone’s luggage, but after he turned 12, he became a polite gentleman, carrying bags for his crazy aunt. After his birthday, he has also grown wiser. He would help his sister, Scout, with any troubles she was having. Scout, however, found this extremely strange, because Jem has never acted this way before. I believe we are still growing until the day we die, but until that day comes, we will grow with great pride and dignity.  

            Do not grow up too fast; instead, enjoy your years as a teen. It is the time when you can still crawl into your mom's lap and go to a dance. It is a time to learn new things; and still time when we can do old things. We might make mistakes, but we will grow wiser with each one. Your time as a teen is one to cherish.