thought for today

If I'm 18 and am held responsible for my actions as an adult in the laws eyes, why am I not allowed to be in a bar after 9pm?

A while back, I was at the winner circle for my older brother and sister's 22nd birthday (yes, they are twins) because the band missy (my sister) is a part of played there that night. Zach (my brother) wanted to stay and listen to them, and Missy had to be there anyway. So it was decided that we as a family would go there for dinner and then let the twins stay late for the band. Half-way through the celebrations, I decided it would be cool to hear the band that my sister works with. so, I asked dad if it would be alright to stay later with my sibilings. He thought it would be ok, but my sister (the band had already plyed there a number of times, so she knew the rules even though my dad did not) spoke up and said that no one under the age of 21 is allowed to stay in the bar after 9. Guess when the band was supposed to come on?

Needless to say, I didn't really get to see them. Which I guess is ok. Missy got a cd and I listened to it. They're ok, not my favorite. But it got me to thinking. Why is it that I am held accountable for my actions as an adult in the eyes of the law, but am not treated like one? Why is it that I can go into a gas station and buy cigarettes that will give me lung cancer and kill me, but I can't be in a bar? It's not like I was going to drink. I am personally against alcohol, but they don't know instead, they could give me a wristband that says im under 21 or stamp my forehead for all I care. I just wish that I was either treated like a teenager or an adult. It shouldn't be obscure the way it is.