Babyboomer Legacy?

With nearly 80 million baby-boomers born between the years 1946 and 1964, an amazing demographic change is about to take place in the U.S.

Starting in 2008, the leading edge of the babyboomer generation reaches retirement age.

As it did with each of lifes’ milestones, this generational surge brought numerous & impactful changes. And, surely the very fabric and history of American society will tip once again in new directions.

Right or wrong, generations are “averaged” and the history books are written. And, while the babyboomer generation blessed our Country with numerous contributions…there are certainly the darker chapters in the legacy of this generation.

Here’s a quick hit-list of words, positive and then negative, often affiliated with the babyboomers:

Change. Idealists. Charitable. Non-conformist. Engaged. Constructive confrontation. Dreamers. Peace-loving. Democratic process.

Self-absorbed. Unpatriotic. Self-Centered. Immediate gratification. Hippies. Sexual Promiscuity. Flag Burners. Drug Experimentation.

Of course, no one person embodies the babyboomer generation. And, let's never forget the media and money-machine behind it are what helps frame the news and how the history books are ultimately written.

Unfairly as it is, a generation can be branded with critcial imagery. This all got me to thinking of the concept of the babyboomer legacy…and whether the real magic of this group of Americans is yet to come.

Demographic studies suggest that the top two activities boomers expect to spend their time & energy on are Travel & Grandchildren.

With 80 Million babyboomers, that’s quite a few soon-to-be grandparents. With the bulk of the echo-boom generation (babyboomer kids) born between 1980 and 1995 now approaching 30...the grandchildren are starting to show up.

Research studies & common experience easily prove that those closest to us (family, friends, educators, coaches) have great impact on the development and therefore, future success of children.

So, think about that. An enormous amount of power & responsibility is about to land in the hands of the boomer generation...once again. Magnify the collective will and experience of this generation towards the positive support of their grandkids, and what happens?

The very future of America will be impacted.

If boomers enter this new stage of life and blossom into caring, supportive grandparents that build legacies around their grandchildren…America & all its ideals will thrive like never before.

A profound and long-lasting generational legacy could drive our Country forward in ways tough to imagine today.

Grandparents who build their legacies around their grandchildren and families will find their life purpose enriched and resolute.

With strong generational love of grandchildren, the tsunami-like effect could overshadow the former brands that media slapped on this generation in the 1960's. Babyboomers can retake control of what it means to contribute to society.

A fanciful dream?

Evidence suggests we can get it wrong too. In fact, if you want to see an in-your-face depiction of what could happen if the babyboomers let down their grandkids…find a copy or click the link to the story below. (Time-Europe Edition, April 7, 2008)

You’ll find a disturbing article about the children and teens in England which might grip your attention like it did mine.

Sadly, the article goes on to portray a youth culture within the UK which has disconnected with that of the adult-world. With little perceived things to do and shunned by the adult society, kids have turned to drugs, drinking, sex, crime, and violence.

20% of Britons surveyed do not go out at night for fear of children in the streets

Violent offenses by children under 18 rose 37% from 2003 to 2006.

Compared to other European countries, British children are more likely by far to binge drink, use drugs, and engage in violently aggressive behavior.

What's different?

Marriage rates in Englad are at a 143 year low. Parents spend less time with their children compared to other nationalities (OECD 2000 study) And, the British culture compared to othes is less child friendly.

With strong parental role models largely abaondoned and a society that looks down upon them...children have developed their own misguided sub-culture.

A painful tale to read, and I hope & pray some strong leaders inside England are successful in re-connecting society with their young…as I’m afraid the very future for England is right now at the pivotal tipping point.

This is a reality the people of England are facing today.

Let’s NOT let this happen to America.

Think again about the MILLIONS of American grandchildren the babyboomer generation will have a direct opportunity to influence.

Perhaps saving America’s future is the generations' true legacy.

The power is in your hands.

Inspire your grandchildren to dream, to grow & learn, to love, to sacrifice, to contribute, to respect & accept, to take risks, to follow their hearts, to stand-up for what’s right, to face their fears.

By doing so, you’ll not only solidify your own legacy….you’ll empower their generation with the character to build their own grandparent legacy some time around the year...2070!!

This power & responsibility is ours today?

Darn right it is.

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