In North America, the thought is that once a person reaches adulthood, it is time for them to move out and live on their own. For the longest time I saw this as something people did in general but not something I would feel impelled to do. I come from two cultures where family is of utmost importance. On the Chinese side, at least from my mom's generation, it is expected that children support their parents once they become financially secure. On the Italian side, women normally only move out to live with their husband or fiancé (who, incidentally, will likely still live at his parents' house. The newlyweds just have a different suite or level).
I used to see nothing lacking in my life. I live in a comfortable home with wonderful parents who have provided me with everything I have ever needed. What more could I want? But lately I have been thinking that I need my own space. Somewhere I can be alone and just live my life without having to answer to anyone. A place where I can be in charge and recharge.
Living at home now, it's not that I don't have privacy or freedom. Quite often I am alone in my room typing away on Chloe, and my parents are each somewhere else in the house doing their own thing. But I do feel suffocated. And what a problem to have -- few responsibilities, and yet one big one--putting my happiness on hold, as I have done in the past, for someone else.
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