Dream deeper and further ahead than any current fantasy When I was living with my parents, I’d fantasize about all the things I’d do when I had a place of my own.I’d paint my nails without being warned to move to the kitchen table lest I spill on the carpet. I’d eat spoonfuls of orange juice concentrate and peanut butter from the jar (not together, of course — that would be gross).Without any parental supervision, I’d stay in my pajamas all Saturday and dance around the living room to Cyndi Lauper’s greatest hits. I’d have parties on the weekends and stay up late weeknights reading scary books. Unfortunately, I’ve tried these things and they’re overrated.After having a place of my own (whether an apartment or house) for more than a decade, some of my early dreams have been shattered.That’s probably for the best, because my dreams are now a little deeper.I can’t claim to be wise, but I have had time to discover richer things that life can offer.I say all of this because this time of year is big for young people — with prom and graduation on the way.They might be having all kinds of fantasies themselves that could prove more nightmarish. I just want to remind them that plenty of mistakes can be made in life (I’ve got a list) but at least wait until you’re an adult to go through too much. For example, keeping a boyfriend isn’t worth losing yourself; it’s perfectly fine to change your major once you’ve started college; making an impression on a girl doesn’t mean you have to do something so foolish she’ll never forget you. Don’t try to get away with too much. There’s a reason the law requires children to live with an adult until they become one. Follow the rules if you have them, and if your parents are too naïve or even too lazy to give you decent rules — do your best with other good influences. Whatever you do, don’t pretend you’re 25 just because you’re dressed up as if you are on prom night, and, frankly, at any age, it is best to remember to paint your nails at a table rather than over the carpet.