Such an experience can make one more compassionate to their fellowman, but depending on the type of person you are, it could also make ya meaner too. I try to be more understanding, but there is definately an anxiety that comes from lost time.
The other thing is that we just can't live the past in the same head as we have today. I think the definition of fun might change somewhat as we age. I spent a lot of years indulging but it was more of a reaction than a studied exploration. As I have shut the world out for the last couple of years, I suspect I am processing my street years and then state of mind. I too have made some conclusions.
The thing that gets me is, why now? What a waste. And there's still plenty to learn! I already knew at 28, that by my state of mind, at the time, it would be at least another 10 to 15 to get any peace.
When you first leave home you may not know why on a conscious level. All your mind is saying is, I gotta get out of this toxic eviornment. And you do. It is only years later, do you become aware of why, on a consious level.
A supportive family could have reduced that time in half. Positive affirmation, reduced guilt, reduced fear, acceptance, protection. ( Refering to being shunned) I think reading would have helped too, but my frame of mind was too low. Association? The last thing I needed was to be moulded by another religion. It's like bein in limbo for 25 years. No solid structure emotionally either.
Would we have had the same spiritual dilema, if we were raised simple secular beings? I honestly don't think I would ever have sought a religious life if I wasn't born into it. I have always seen most values as common sense, and simple, but socially, I still feel I don't belong anywhere.