I’ve been noticing lately that tea is an amazing soother. Just as some might reach for a cigarette, run to the Recreation Center or surround themselves with stimulating conversation, I prefer to reach for my cup of tea. What startles me, though, is the stimulation of thoughts this personal indulgence can cause. For some reason, the focus of my attention seems to have locked in on maturity.

College is a time of discovering oneself, receiving the tools to become a better person and growing. Very few come out of college the same way they came in. But when does that change happen? When do we finally recognize we are not the same, that our minds have changed and we feel an added sense of wisdom?

For some reason, I feel I went through my maturity gate a while back. Granted, I am only a sophomore, but for some reason, I don’t feel like the same person I came down to SIU as. How can I reaffirm this fact? A close friend of mine cried out only moments ago in celebration that there were going to be a $1 cups at a party, followed by a rant of many expletives. Instead of rejoicing with him, I simply turned away and thought to myself, no, this person has not found maturity yet.

But is the day you realize you actually want to remember days and not drink yourself to a state of unbelievable numbness finding maturity? Is it the day you realize the image of college binge drinking and constant chaos you began to salivate over in junior high went in and out like a bad fashion statement? I’m not saying there’s something wrong with partying or enjoying alcohol with your friends, but when you cannot hold a conversation without the phrase, “Dude, I was so messed up” – doesn’t it make you somewhat upset? Personally, I need intelligent conversation for my mind to stay active.

Prioritizing is also a factor in this. Determining what is best for your future rather than settling to live in the moment can play a huge role in your maturity. For instance, you may find you have a great opportunity to organize a community fundraiser that would look fantastic on your resume and help you to network. Instead, you opt for the three-hour nap and skip a couple of classes along the way. Doing something to help your future, however small or large it might be, can also improve your maturity.

Whether you participate or avoid a substance may not be the single indicator of maturity. Then again, no one ever wakes up with a total change of mind and outlook on life. It is a process that takes time, tough decisions and large amounts of effort. It is life changing, there’s no question about that. But there’s also a subtle feeling of accomplishment and pride.

Although a soother such as a cup of tea isn’t going to just hand you your maturity, it just may help focus in on understanding it.

Rancatore is a sophomore studying radio and television.