Undergraduate / Conflicts between my parents; Transition from childhood to adulthood [5]

My defining moment of my transition from childhood to adulthood came at a very young age. I was never really able to understand the conflicts that took place between my parents or about my mothers addiction. What I did know was that my mother was not like the other mothers. As I grew up I worried about things normal 10-year-old's didn't even think about, things like how I would get to school, where I would get my lunch money, and most importantly would my mom be there when I woke up. I felt like I was more mature than about 90% of the adults in my life. Taking care of my three younger brothers became a daily chore for me. My school work was pushed aside and I wasn't able to go play with my friends, I had to take on the adult responsibilities in the house. Although, as hard as it was to grow up in an environment like that I wouldn't change any of it. The hardships that I have faced while being under my mothers care has shaped me into the person I am today. I have seen the consequences that come from bad decisions and habits. I believe people go through things for a reason, and I couldn't imagine my life being any different. I was forced to grow up faster than most kids, but I have learned how to be a responsible person. I don't resent my mother for what she has done, but I want to thank her. She didn't teach me very much in my life but she has unknowingly taught me how to be responsible and mature. You can't change the past but you can certainly learn from it and that is what I have chosen to do.