When we're children, running away seemed like terrible, dangerous and reckless act. I often thought about it after getting into a row with my parents or something else which was likely inconsequential, but never went through with it. How could I have? I had no money, no sense of direction. I'd end up just walking in circles around my neighborhood and when the street lights turned on I knew I had to go home where it was safe. Even if I didn't want to be there.
The first opportunity I had to escape was college. I left the state and because of a boy, I ran back. Then I left again for almost a year which was the best year of my entire life. I should have stayed there, but I didn't. Now, I've run again and although this is the most independent I have ever felt and I'm so happy to be here, the part of me that is programmed to pack up and go is already planning my next move.
Is this still considered running away? Is it wanderlust? Is it being scared to settle down? Most likely it's a combination of the three.
It raises the question "Are you ever too old to run away?" If the answer is no, then I wonder when will it stop? Or perhaps more importantly, do I want it to?