Computer, mobile phones, stereos, ipods, mp3s, peer groups, and malls make up the whole world of a typical Filipino teen. Most of our time is eaten by these which simply means lump of seconds for our studies and even our own families. Far away from early ages, this is not supposed to be this way.

Two years ago, I was 13 then, my cousin tied the knot through a civil wedding. You may not believe me but his wife is just 15 and he is just around 17 and both of them have not finished school. They took the vows for their little angel soon to witness the world. His wife is just one of those youngsters who lose track of their path. This may be your worst downfall but mind you, you can always go back. You may not bring things back but you can gather courage, take a good look at what had happened and create your new, better way. Just always look up.

Early marriage and premarital sex are the two prime suspects of Philippines’ growing population, and two of the major problems our parents worry about. I never said “Do not get a boyfriend/girlfriend” but please, please do not be aggressive. We are too young for this and there is time for everything so do not be in a hurry. And another thing is our activities with our friends. At a very young age, some have already tried smoking, gambling, drinking alcoholic beverages and taking prohibited drugs because of peer influence and worse, peer pressure. There are numerous circles of friends out there, if you cannot find the best one, perhaps you can find the better one. You need not to involve yourself in fraternities, sororities, and the like. You can have a company that does not need hazing. So what’s the point of joining frats?

Another threat, let’s just call it “technology mania”. Yes! You heard it right. Our youth today gives too much attention to their gadgets. During my high school days, in a vacant period, I observed my classmates. Majority of us brought out cellular phones, and mp3s. Some were texting, some were playing mobile games, some were taking pictures and I just found myself listening to music from my phone. We have not even thought of taking a glance at our books which lived their whole lives inside the filthy lockers. And try to browse through the pages of your books, you’ll never fail to heard a compliment. Then after school, what’s next? As expected, we go straight to computer shops, cafes, mall, and less likely to our homes.

Why is this so? Let me guess. We’re doing these out of curiosity, because of trend, because of our immaturity, perhaps because of all. Okay! All of these are just for now, this is what is up for now. And now is not forever, and it can never be forever.

So the next time someone will ask the same question, sana may nagbago.