My generation, the “Boomers”, felt very distinct from the previous generations due to a a number of factors, including technological (the first generation to grow up with television, which radically changed our perception of events at home and in other parts of the world). Many of us addressed this perceived divide by striking out on our own, we did not feel the need of our elders’ advice, support or narrow views. I suspect that many of us now regret our naive rejection of the previous generation’s experience.

I think the Millennials are a very interesting generation and I do applaud your aspirations for a better world. You deserve to be supported in that, and we Boomers should take heed of your questions. Danny Goldberg wrote a very interesting book called How the Left Lost Teen Spirit in which he calls on Boomers to support the younger generation in its idealistic aspirations, not to walk away as he felt that the previous generation did when Boomers were young. Each generation builds on the shoulders of the previous one, let’s put our shoulders to this one.

I for one am fascinated by the energy and willingness to get involved of your generation. I see my youthful self in you. It is very difficult though to define exactly how one puts support in action. One of your questions refers to that dilemma: when is it good to give advice from experience and when is it good to keep your mouth shut? There are no easy answers, no hard and fast rules for discerning wise action.

How we open up leadership so that youth make more decisions though is really up to you. We can’t “give” you leadership, you have to “take” it on. Go for it!

I am working on the answers to the questions you pose, which I will post as well.

Thank you again, take care, and peace!!