To my generation:
I am only here to tell you three things: 1. Stop seeking validation from others. 2. Stop listening to the negative things others have to say about you. 3. Start listening to yourself. We, as a whole, are criticized constantly, not for the individual acts we commit, but for existing as we are. For the first time in the world, we are connected on a global scale.
I know it hurts when the older generation begins to criticize for being emotional or sensitive, or when they begin to point out your flaws. But it's okay. So what if we're more in touch with our feelings than others? So what if we're all about love and self-expression? Why is any of that a bad thing? You are seen. You are heard.
Because of the incredible acts of individuals from generations before us, we don't have to go through what they did. Because of Elizabeth Candy Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, and Lucy Stone, women have the right to vote. Because of Martin Luther King Jr. and the non-violent movement, we have civil rights. Because of the latest technological advancements, our lives have become easier and we are able to discover new things. We are grateful for all of the pain and suffering that was endured that has allowed us to be where we are today. But because of new discoveries and inventions every day, we will never be like our grandparents or even our parents.
Now I'm not saying that you should expect everything to be handed to you, nor should you feel entitled to everything. You should continue to work and better yourself so that you may better our world for the next generation. You should begin to listen to your heart and be vocal about issues that will hurt others. You should scream and kick and do whatever it takes to fight for yourself in a world that is constantly trying to silence you.
Do your best to prove the world wrong and show them that you are incredible, capable, brilliant, compassionate, strong, and determined. You are talented artists, remarkable scientists, incredible teachers, honest lawyers, and brilliant doctors. You are dreamers and doers, fighting for your brothers and sisters and the Earth with which you live on. I know you recognize how amazing you are and that you are aware of your potential. Channel your passion and energy to reform social standards and change the world. This is our time. We are one generation. So please, don't let others tell you who you should be and don't let them define you. Be yourself unapologetically and unite with one another, to change the world.
Sincerely,
Generation Z
