Stop Hating on the Next Gen
Life is a journey that we all embark on with the hope of making it easier for the next generation. It’s a natural instinct to want to pave the way for those who come after us, to ensure that they have a better life than we did. However, what happens when the next generation actually does have it easier than we did? Why do we tend to judge them instead of celebrating their good fortune?
As a society, we tend to romanticize the past and the struggles that came with it. We look back at our own experiences and often see them through rose-tinted glasses. We remember the hardships, the sacrifices, and the obstacles we had to overcome to get where we are today. However, when we see the next generation enjoying the benefits of our hard work, we tend to forget that we wanted things to be easier for them. Progress is not linear. Each generation builds upon the successes and failures of those who came before them. What might have been a significant challenge for one generation could be an effortless task for the next.
Unfortunately, we often forget this and instead criticize the next generation for having it easy. We say things like “back in my day,” or “when I was your age.” We tell them that they’re lazy, entitled, and that they don’t know how good they have it. But is that fair? Is it fair to judge an entire generation based on our own experiences and our own struggles?
It’s important to recognize that every generation has its own unique set of challenges and obstacles. The struggles that we faced growing up might not be the same as those that the next generation faces. However, that doesn’t mean that their struggles are any less valid or any less real.
As we move forward, it’s essential that we focus on creating a world that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and more supportive of all individuals. It’s time to stop chastising the next generation for having it easier than we did and start celebrating their successes. We should be proud of the progress that we’ve made and excited for the progress that the next generation will make.
In addition to supporting and celebrating the next generation, it’s also crucial that we advise them and help them avoid repeating the same mistakes we did. We have the benefit of hindsight and experience, and we can use that to guide and mentor the next generation. We can educate them about the consequences of harmful behaviors, such as drug abuse, violence, and unhealthy relationships. We can encourage them to be mindful of their choices and to consider the impact of their actions on themselves and others.
However, it’s essential that we approach this advice with humility and openness. We must recognize that the next generation has its own unique perspectives and experiences, and that they may not always agree with our advice or follow our guidance. We must respect their autonomy and allow them to make their own choices, even if they differ from what we would have done in their shoes.
Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between supporting and advising the next generation. We must be there for them as mentors, role models, and friends, but we must also respect their independence and allow them to learn from their own mistakes. By doing so, we can help create a world that is more resilient, compassionate, and just, and leave a legacy that we can be proud of.