What will we do?

I have spent the last few months making fun of some of the more glaring idiosyncrasies of our generation, pointing out our obvious flaws and annoying habits.  The fact is as the world changes, each generation is going to have characteristics that can be easily ridiculed; we have to be willing to laugh at ourselves.

 

But I would like to change up this last post a bit and reflect on the tremendous abilities and strengths that we possess.

 

1.  We are, as a whole, more accepting of diversity than past generations.  Cultural and lifestyle differences can be openly celebrated.  Young people today are more apt to see that we are really more alike than we are different, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation.  I honestly think that if someone is obnoxious and stupid enough to make openly racist or homophobic comments in public, THEY are ones that at risk of being judged.  And that is how it should be!

 

2.  We are more globally aware than past generations.  There are real problems in this world and we are the ones that are going to have to solve them.  We can’t ignore injustice and other people’s suffering and simply go on about our business the way previous generations have. Due to the role of international media and technology, we realize that we do not live in a safe little cocoon anymore.  If this world is going to be a better place we have to work WITH other countries in making this happen.  International Affairs is one of the fastest growing majors at colleges all over the country.  A desire to learn about and understand, not judge and control, other cultures is what we are moving toward.  The concept of Manifest Destiny is dead and we are finally waking up to realize that we, as Americans, are no better than anyone else.

 

While our generation may have its faults and shortcomings, these are two reasons that I am proud to be a part of it.  I truly believe that we are going to change the world.