Early this morning, I started my day like I do everyday: with the New York Times. The headlines today blared news of the North Korean rocket launch, Secret Service agents dismissed for misconduct, and more discussion on Iran. Like most days, the news is disheartening and it’s no surprise that many in our generation are pessimistic about current affairs. Perhaps for some this gloom is a result of being uninformed, for some it is a result of being trapped in the safety net of college life, and for others it is because we are overwhelmed by it all. As the most connected generation, we receive our news quickly and in large doses as a result of social media networks. It is hard for us to hide from the troubles of the world. But perhaps the most beautiful thing is that we aren’t hiding, our generation continually looks towards the future even during trying times. The discouragement is fleeting – Millennials are short-term pessimists and long-term optimists.
As Jelani discussed, we look to solve problems using our optimism and faith and have a true belief that we can change the world. And why shouldn’t we? We were born with the world at our fingertips. Today, unlike ever before, we have the opportunity to be citizens of the world. The furthest corners of the world are just a flight or five away. It is easy to be connected and informed if we properly use the technology we surround ourselves with. We care deeply about those in need and want to work together to improve the world around us. And perhaps most importantly, we are at the unique time in our life to learn through intergenerational friendships.
We are encouraged by these opportunities and are continue onward through the negativity that the world throws our way. Millenials understand the challenges that face an overcrowded world, filled with greed, violence, and oppression. But at the same time, we are astounded by the extraordinary capacity of human beings. We are beginning to recognize how to solve many of the world’s issues and now we must channel our rose-colored view of the world away from thinking and actually engage in action. As
Tyler touches on, we must use our optimistic viewpoints and engaged voices to do something. Our future is exciting and we must actively seek to explore, to travel, to learn, to connect, and to make a difference.
Our glasses might be half empty for now but our cups of optimism won’t run dry.
