Wonder

    Never outgrow your sense of wonder.  Wonder will inspire you to explore all the rich things that life can give you, keeping you modest in the process.  As you get older, you will want to think you know things, and because you already know things it will dampen your interest in unfamiliar ideas and subjects.  Instead, try to retain the innocence that claimed you when you were born, so you can remember the old things and still be open to learning new things.  Never laugh at those who keep their toys, or who become easily amused, no matter how old they are.  You will find that the young and the elderly have the same needs, and dream of the same stuff.  We all devolve to the state of youth after life has come full circle.  That lifelong quest for knowledge will have meant nothing unless you find a way to apply it well. 

Self-Actualization

I'm nearly there, the summit is in sight. 
The bonds of the world are releasing their grip. 
I've stepped out of the mold and into the flux, 
Catatonic despair thawed by a rediscovery of youth. 
Let the journey continue, let the path be easier, 
Chisel these obstacles with a calculated strength, 
Refined by the adjustments delayed, in no hurry 
To reach the promised peak. 
 
Shed these few remaining layers of insecurities, 
Phobias shelled by the illusions of comfort, ambitions hardened 
By years of effort, the compromise made when sacrificing 
Self-preservation for the convenience of others. 
 
I am less concerned with their thoughts, but still care. 
I am less motivated by perfection, but still strive. 
I am less introverted, but still draw isolation. 
I am less incensed by the passions, but still burn with control. 
I am less me, more you, less us, more them, 
Less individual, more universal.