There has been much written about generation gaps with each new generation. I have also often opined on the subject but recently I see a different view on generational differences.
I believe every generation goes through the same awakening, challenges, sense of being misunderstood by previous generations, taken lightly, indulged or neglected, etc…. it is the same rite of passage. Of course world events are different, technology is different, economics and industry are different.
What hit me about the difference with each generation is really around the time of maturity. Let me explain.
[The following are broad brush statements.] Those from the veterans generation had to be mature around the age of 15-16 years due to the circumstances of the war, fathers being drafted, killed etc.
Those in baby boomers generation had to mature around late teens to 20ish due to the days of industrialisation and children had to adjust to parent’s hardship.
Those in Gen X would mature around mid 20s against their own backdrop of world events, family events, etc.
Gen Y does not need to mature if they do not want to. Many in their late 20s / early 30s are still not mature. Their parents are still paying their bills or shielding them from the consequences of bad decisions / bad behaviours.
What then is maturity?
It is when one takes up responsibilities for one’s own spending, own mistakes, and face own consequence [instead of parents or friends].
It is when one is willing to sacrifice immediate good for a future great. It is when one is willing to sacrifice one’s own joy for the sake of another.
It is when we can see our own mistakes first before pointing the finger at others. It is when we do not complain about everything and exaggerate the situation like a 4-year old whose balloon burst.
We know we are mature when we do not fight everything in rebellion and contribute to a cause that we have no glory to claim from.
Given these are generalisations, there will be wonderful exceptions ….and i am glad there are.
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