Meaning: The quote "It's depressing and scary, but he needs to know the world around him because he's fourteen now and in two years he's going to drive. He needs to know what goes on out in the world. I'm not going to always be there." by Jami Gertz, an American actress, touches on the complex emotions and responsibilities that come with parenting a teenager. This quote reflects the sentiment that as children grow older, they need to become more aware and knowledgeable about the world around them in order to navigate their future independently.

At the heart of this quote is the recognition of the daunting reality that comes with raising a teenager. Gertz expresses a mixture of emotions, acknowledging that it can be "depressing and scary" to witness a child's transition into adolescence. This sentiment is one that many parents can relate to, as the teenage years are often characterized by significant changes and challenges for both the parent and the child.

The quote also underscores the urgency for the teenager to understand the world around them, as evidenced by the mention of the imminent milestone of learning to drive. This signifies a pivotal moment in a teenager's life, as it marks the beginning of increased independence and responsibility. Gertz emphasizes the importance of her son being aware of what goes on in the world, highlighting the need for him to be informed and prepared for the realities he will encounter as he ventures out on his own.

Furthermore, Gertz's acknowledgment that she will not always be there for her son reflects the parental recognition of the eventual need for their child to stand on their own. This recognition is a bittersweet aspect of parenting, as it involves preparing a child to navigate the world independently while also coming to terms with the shifting dynamics of the parent-child relationship.

This quote serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of parenting as children grow older. It encapsulates the delicate balance between protecting and preparing a child for the realities of the world. Gertz's words convey the universal truth that as children reach adolescence, parents must grapple with their own emotions while guiding their children toward self-sufficiency.

In conclusion, Jami Gertz's quote encapsulates the poignant and complex emotions involved in parenting a teenager. It emphasizes the need for teenagers to become aware of the world around them and the responsibilities that come with growing older. This quote serves as a poignant reflection of the transition from childhood to adolescence and the evolving role of parents in guiding their children toward independence.