Dear Fellow Millennials,

We have been labeled as the self-centered, egotistical, lazy, and spoiled generation that is ruining our country - owning a reputation where the title is more demeaning than positive. One where some refuse to accept it because they don’t want to be classified under such terms.

We need to change that.

Have others not seen how our minds set fire to clear new pathways? How our generation’s voice demands to be heard as one? We are the next to propel our society into new dimensions, so don’t you dare diminish our flames and mistake our cries as complaints.

We are the generation of real change.

Do not let others interpret your high self-esteem as being self-centered. Do not be ashamed of the fact that you have built your pride up to standards that are astronomical. Though you must also realize that there will be times where you are wrong, and have to accept that fact with grace.

We are the generation of movements, an ocean that demands the world to feel its waves. No longer should we accept “millennial” as a criticising term, rather as a powerful one. A title for an age of change and empowerment. We have addressed social issues that have needed to change with our forever altering society. We are the transition of power for how we want our country and lives to be, and it all starts with us.

Hear me out when I say this next part. To be the change, we must change. We cannot accept the stereotype we have been given and just go along with it. We have to alter the entitlement into hard work and dedication, change the views of self-centeredness into body positivity and self love for future generations, and create a world where we constantly build one another up rather than compete for the top.

Build a world that you are proud to live in.

To the other generations who see us as our stereotype, I hope that you shift your views. We have been given obstacles that are more difficult than the previous years. The value of money is not the same as it once was. The growing rate of college students is making it harder to attend. We are trying and your support is what matters. View us in high standards and we will produce high quality work. Tear us down and we will not see the value in trying.

I promise that we will return the energy that you give us.

We are not entitled for life to be handed to us, but we are entitled to the respect, understanding, and dignity from you as we embark on the changing society ahead.

So millennials, do not grow discouraged that times are harder. Grow pride in succeeding through them. Live your best life in a world that continues to challenge you.

We are a machine that wants to better our lives and the world. We are the powerhouse behind new beginnings. Continue to develop and produce quality work. Love your neighbors and the community around you. Shatter glass ceilings and limitations.

We are the spark for the future flames our world needs to run on.

We are the warriors facing life head on.

We are millenials.

Sincerely,

A Fellow Millennial