I'm only 31 (almost 32) and people tell me all the time that I'm an "old soul". I never really thought about what that meant until someone someone said something really profound.

I have been around older people (20 to 40 years my senior) since I was about 16 years old. My senior year in high school I signed up for a work-study program and unknowingly started my "career" with the Federal Government that has now spanned over 15 years. I never understood why I thought about things the way I do (in a more mature manner than most people my own age). I feel a lot older than 31, and now I know why. I believe I grew up (matured) a lot sooner than most teenagers do, in large part because of my job. When other kids were out partying and having fun, I was in the office, five days a week working as an apprentice to Government Architects and Space Planners.

I don't regret any of it. I have built a very successful career for myself and my family. Wouldn't change a thing...well...maybe a few things.

So, any other "old souls" out there?