According to the Associated Press, a 13 year old Dutch girl wants to be the youngest person to sail solo around the world. The request is being discussed with authorities who believe she is too young to sail by herself while her parents completely agree with this choice. Sounds crazy right?
The Dutch judges believe this is too dangerous what with the threats of pirates, harsh weather conditions, and the fact that this girl is very early in her emotional development which could cause problems later in life. A few psychologists feel that children beginning their adolescent development need to be around peers and adults during this difficult period. Being alone on a boat for 2 years could definitely cause some tramatic circumstances.
Her parents on the other hand are excellent sailors, having spent most of their life sailing around the world. The young girl spent the first 4 years of her life at sea. Her lawyer is trying to petition for her right to decide on the outcome of this requested trip.
On the one hand, we're always pushing ourselves to pursue our dreams and passions even if they seem crazy to others; but on the other hand, doesn't it seem extremely dangerous for a child to make such important decisions about their livelihood?
It's a catch-22 between that desire to fulfill your goal of becoming one with the sea, experiencing life like nobody else can and looking out for your safety, knowing firsthand how responsible and mature you need to be to succeed.
If you were given a chance like this, what would you do?
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