I had a conversation with a young Gen Z recently. This is a peer group that appears to be descending into an increasingly tribal and cultural malaise centered about gender, race and a selfish definition of equity which only recent generations seem to understand. Here is my reply.
August 2023
You are at the moment of decision. My generation had the time, and freedom, to make decisions about our future and the world we wanted for ourselves and future generations. Our values were based on those of our fathers and mothers who fought brutal wars to defend their way of life. Not just for themselves, but for all of mankind. Your world is changing rapidly, and for many of you in very unexpected ways. You may not have the same opportunity as we did to fine tune the values that have been preserved for you. Soon you may have to make some life altering choices.
Some of your immediate generation have already made critical life decisions which include college, grad and professional schools; taking their place as officers and combat leaders in our military. Others have made career and family formation decisions. Unfortunately, the decision by many of you has been to make no choice at all.
Eventually decisions will be made, and for most they will result in little or no observable consequence throughout your lifetime. But, for a few their decisions will influence the future of our communities, nations and perhaps humanity. So, be certain that these choices will be made. You will make them, or they will be made for you. However, whatever decisions you chose to make now, or in the future:
- Be firm, but fair, in all your personal relationships. Expect no more in return than you are willing to give.
- Defend your natural right to choose. Demand respect for the decisions you make, including anything you say, or do, and take responsibility for the outcome.
- If you decide to have a relationship with God, accept the consequences. HE is not always fair, but HE is always true.
If you choose, without exception, to be guided by these principles you will be free, happy, and you will never be lonely.
___________________________
Finally. The first choice we all make are the words we use. Chose your words with care, and measure the words of others cautiously. Perhaps you will find some hope and guidance in these sentiments.
"We all have a choice to make. We live in a world filled with words and expectations. What will we listen to, who will we listen to and what will we say today. It becomes so easy to be cynical about our words, often wondering, "What could I say that would make a difference". But a thoughtful word can change a life. It can change your life. By changing our words we can change the world. If only by making just a small difference. Your ability, or inability, does not define your call to action. Your past does not define your future. Your limitations do not disqualify you from getting in the game. If you have been inspired by others - Then you can inspire, too -
If You Are Uncertain, Find Someone You Trust - Then Become Someone Others Trust - Learn . . . . Always - Then Teach - Seek Truth, not to power, but To Wisdom - Be Honest - Share Your Experience - Share Your Talent - Be Just - Be Loyal - Be Gracious - Be Alert - Imagine Your Potential - Then Discover Your Potential - Find Your Passion, Then Follow It - Give What You Can, Then Give A little More - Embrace Your Hopes & Dreams - Encourage Others To Pursue Theirs - Be Yourself - Be Patient - When You Discover The Extraordinary Within You . . . You Will Make A Difference . . . "
H – What others have said about you is not the final word. You will have the last word, so choose with care . . . .
Good luck – bp
Châz