Millennials are more than a careless generation who find no value in life lessons from the past.
For the last two semesters, I have had the pleasure to write about the ideas, talents and motivations millennials seem to struggle with. I truly believe there are many lost arts (forgotten skills that were practiced and mastered by older generations) among millennials and if these lost arts are not practiced, they will fade and become forever lost. Though we may have a lot to learn, we are a fantastic generation who has potential.
From life experiences, I can say my life has been changed by learning to listen to two white-haired women, being married, showing chivalry, and talking face-to-face. If time is taken to implement these lessons or skills, you’ll be set for life, and this is speaking from experience.
I think it’s time to call it quits on the bashing of a generation of which I am a part of. We, by no means, are perfect. Yet, this does not mean the rest of society should throw in the towel when it comes to understanding, working with and learning from millennials.
Millennials are an inquisitive bunch. With life being full of mysteries and unsolved problems, there seems to be an innate desire within us to discover the unsung answers of the universe. Many, but not all, flock to science-based material that gives basis to some understanding and knowledge of how things work.
All one has to do is look at the recent work put forth by the Soft Cell Biological Research LLC. Their discovery of over 400 new types of bacteria is an example of millennials at Dixie State University showing a sense of inquisitiveness.Some may simply want answers that are reasonable and explainable.
I also believe being inquisitive enables a millennial to be independent and self-reliable. They learn when they want something, they have to being willing to struggle and persevere for it.
Achieving these aspirations require some sacrifice for many millennials; it may keep them from missing out on the activities of “millennialhood” (the time period of being a young adult) in order to find success for a brighter tomorrow.
I’ve found myself in this predicament numerous times during my college days. For most of my higher education, I have typically held one, two or three jobs on top of being a full-time student. I had to rely on myself to get money for food, phone, car, car insurance and dates. I knew if I wanted these things I had to be independent and do what needed to be done.
Learning to be self-reliant and independent often requires an individual to have courage. Characteristics like these require a level of bravery. This can be a big, rough and mean world we live in, and if one can’t fend for his or herself, then he or she doesn’t stand a chance.
Millennials are fighting just as hard, if not harder, to find their place in a world that thinks pretty poorly of them. Look at the major push for equality, which members of the LBGTQ community have made. They stick their necks in the guillotine controlled by society in the name of love.
As a 19-year-old kid, I put myself out on the streets among strangers every day for two years to preach religion in a foreign country. Many days I had to dig deep down to find courage to go and proselyte to the people of England.
Whatever the case may be, millennials are inquisitive, independent, self-reliable and courageous.
So next time you question the millennial generation, think twice. Please think of the good we have to offer society. We may do things differently, but we adapt and show resilience. Millennials are the future; the world better be ready for us.