Humble.

Growing up is hard, man.

I know practically every 20-something says this, but why don't they give you a manual when you graduate from college? Really, a small guide (20 pages or so, with pictures) with tips and instructions on important grown-up knowledge would be awesome. Because I don't know how to do this.

I'm expected to be responsible for my own well-being. To go to the doctor and the dentist and the optometrist on a (semi-, insurance-dictated) regular basis. How much should I pay for health insurance? Do I need renters' insurance?

I'm expected to know things like, how much am I "worth" to an organization? And what's an appropriate amount to pay for rent in my neck of the woods?

Being grown up and living on your own (because let's face it, PULSE isn't really living on your own at all) means that you have a lot to do. How do you put in a security deposit? How do you set up your utilities? Budget, or pay by the month? Where do you get all the furniture to sit on and sleep on?

Recently, a lot of these questions have come up. And I realized that I have absolutely no idea about how to answer any of them on my own. I've had to learn a little lesson in humility.

I'm usually the type who likes to have all the answers. I don't think I'm necessarily arrogant about my knowledge, but I don't like to admit when I don't know something. But this grown-up stuff is serious. I can't just fudge my way through getting utilities, because then I'll end up stealing electric from the neighbors with an extension card, and fry myself a la Clark Griswold in Christmas Vacation. Then, since I made up the insurance process as I went along, I wouldn't even have medical coverage to nurse me back to health.

So you see my predicament. Either make a go of it on my own and probably screw up royally, or ask for help. So, I've asked for help. A lot more often than not, lately. It's kind of hard to do sometimes, but it's also an immense relief and blessing to have someone else tell me the answers to all of life's big questions (like, how much water will we use in one month?).

I'm going to get started on that life guide for college graduates. Any tips to include? ;)