Dear Future Generations (and some of my generation too),
Don't forget that we've, the generations before you, been there. Don't forget that even though we're older, we are still growing and learning just like you....we've just had more of a head start than you. Don't forget that like many generations before us, we also had to WORK to earn what we have because NOTHING in this world comes free. Don't forget that respect will never go out of style. Don't forget that you don't always have to be right and that sometimes it's better to not say anything but, don't let people walk all over you either. There is a right way to handle situations, you just need to find it.
Now I'm not saying that my generation is perfect, that's not the case at all. The people of my generation, myself included, have definitely had our ups and downs. There have been times when respect hasn't been given where it should have been. Times where situations could have been handled better. Times where some of us have acted entitled and we didn't see anything wrong with it. Times where we've forgotten that the generations before us went through similar situations.
We have to remember that we are all people and have the same wants and needs in life. You're always going to need other people in this crazy, messed up world...don't be afraid of it. Remember that past generations, my generation, your generation, and future generations are going to make mistakes because no one...are you paying attention...NO ONE is perfect! Admit that mistakes were made, focus on not repeating them and move on. Pay attention to what past generations have to say, the stories they tell. They're not always going to be here to tell those stories or to get advice from, so while they are here, listen and hold on to it...put it to use. Don't just say you're listening and then tune them out. Don't act like you know everything and don't need advice from them...you're going to need it at some point in your life. Also, don't act like you're too good to be seen with someone from a generation before yours...make it one of the new norms.
A couple things to remember... "Hindsight is 20/20"...and it most likely always will be. We can learn a lot of things from the past... "Those who do not remember the past are doomed to repeat it."
Sincerely,
One person from Generation Z (birth year 1996 - 2010)