All my life I have been defined by my age. What does that mean you ask? When I was twelve I was considered mature for my age. When I was fifteen I was being asked what year I was in for University. Now that I am seventeen I am asked if I have a full time job aside from my work on the weekends. The common saying that age defines you is rightfully said. Age can be just a number but at the same time it represents so much more that a number. Age can depict wisdom, maturity, and a higher skill set.

​

In the book Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, the main character in the story, Willy Loman, is blamed for his many faults such as his suicidal thoughts, mental well-being, and relationship with his sons. Willy is given the benefit of the doubt because all the blame is put on his age. His suicidal thoughts can be blamed on his age, in the past being the successful salesman in his earlier years, Willy is now feeling useless and feels as if he doesn't really contribute to the family. Given his mental state Willy often has experiences where he is takes back to a moment in time, this happens when his mind is no longer present but his body is. This can be blamed by  his childhood lacking a father figure, Willy always looked up to other men for advice all throughout his years, as he became older he started taking his own advice. Later he realized just how wrong his advice and actions have really been. When the Loman family was younger they had established a close bond with each other, in the present we can see that there is visibly more strain on their relationship. Now that the Loman brothers are finally seeing their dad in the light they realize he's not the same super dad he was when they were younger, things have changed. These things were all age dependant, clearly Willy's younger years were his golden years.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

If you would like to listen to the Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, enjoy.

​

Now, I'm not saying that just like Willy Loman all my problems were caused by age. Although I do believe that age does play an important role in my life. I'm sure being a teenager in our world today, doesn't exactly sound like the best predicament. Teens are often seen as immature, selfish, and unobservant from society. During this quintessential time in our development we are prone to mistakes, and it's not exactly seen as "selling quality". Through my life I have had my fair share of being misjudged by others. Whether I'm seen as being mature, diligent, and even humble and trustworthy, some of these things can come off as a shock to others. I always say that the difference between being part of the preconceived notion of teenagers is being a caring person. When you care you immediately hold yourself a little higher and think about your health. When you care you put others first and try to help anytime you can. When you care you take pride in your work, you will always strive to excellence and do your best. These are simple things that when you take them into consideration, they can really change your life.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​