18 aren't as fantastic as people build it up to be. The fact is, most people are still somewhat reliant on their parents (be it for healthcare coverage, college, rent, etc...) until their early to mid 20s. So while you get a bit more legal freedom (you can sign a legally binding contract and everything that entails, for better or worse... you can go to 18+ shows... as well as several other less savory things like buy cigarettes, watch a porn, film a porn, join the military, etc...), your actions are still somewhat subject to parentalapproval.
And the flip side... if you aren't dependent on your parents at all, then you'll likely be spending so much time working (once you find one) to spend all your money and bills, and thus you can't really afford the money or time for anything else.
So I guess your girlfriend is obviously younger than you to be so happy because dating someone legal. You don't seem really up for it, so she's there to be happy for you. Just enjoy it, I wish my girlfriend was like that. What'd she get you?
So... most people aren't really "free" (one way or another) for several years after turning 18. So, in my opinion, it's best to look at it as another birthday with a new set of turning points in your life, just like any other. Continue the course you were on, using your new resources (however limited) to do so, or change courses entirely, if you want. Like any other birthday, you're still the same person living the same life, so make of it whatever you want.
sinfulwolf
Its society's set date for transition to adult. You are no longer a child or simple teenager, you are now an adult that is supposed to have responsibility, perspective, and be able to stand up on your own. Not too long till your thrown to the real world now.
Scourger9
I'll have to get a job. Blech. Whatever, I'll make it just fine if I go to college. Thanks for the response!