4 ms·
The mind of a teenage boy can be a dangerous place. They are old enough to realize the possibilities and thrills associated with what they are doing, but not ex
by S_A_P 14y ago
The mind of a teenage boy can be a dangerous place. They are old enough to realize the possibilities and thrills associated with what they are doing, but not experienced enough to realize the consequences of their actions. I know I was a "knucklehead" from about age 15-20. I never did anything that got me into too much trouble, but I distinctly remember that the line between right and wrong seemed much hazier than it does to me now. I only wish I could figure out a way to impress upon my kids the consequences of their actions.
- tankbot 14y agoAgree. I can remember vividly that same state of flux in my own life. When my parents dropped our dialup internet (too expensive) I looked for alternative ways to get online. My 'solution' was successful and was really exciting at the time but it was also illegal. After (poorly) emulating what I had done, a friend ended up with an angry sysadmin and some cops at his door. Obviously what I did was wrong, it was stealing. But at the time it didn't feel wrong. It was exciting, fun and interesting - unlike anything in school or sports. Not only that, but the kid who got busted was our valedictorian a few years later, arguably one of the smartest kids in school. All of the elation associated with the hack added to the fact that I knew most people couldn't do, or even understand, what I had done, masked any feelings of guilt or culpability in my still-developing conscience. Now I have a son on the way and I'm wondering what he will have to experience before learning these lessons and what I can do to help with that. The prospect of being a father is the happiest, most exciting thing in my life to date - and also the most terrifying.