While attending a “class” about conducting veteran interviews which I found to be a phenomenal experience, I learned a great deal about what it is, how to go about it and so much more. Interviewing veterans and letting them tell their story isn’t something you hear of often.

While listening to the presentation, an interesting point was brought up by an elder in the room, “this current generation doesn’t care, they aren’t going to want to hear what these old people have to say; they are too self consumed.” Sitting there, I had nothing to say regarding that comment because yes, I am a part of this current generation but I didn’t feel it was my place as I was surrounded by those not of the current generation. At the time I didn’t exactly know how to react because what is the proper way to disagree with an elder? I don’t think there is a “proper” or “right” way per say because if you disagree you over step boundaries, if you remain quiet you’re accused of ignoring them and being disrespectful. So, someone tell me what is the right way to converse with elders around you? Now, thinking about it, I think she spoke out of place, I can see where sometimes we are a bit self consumed and I’m sure there are people that don’t particularly have an interest in stories of war experience but I do feel that a generalization was made. I do hope that not everyone of an earlier generation feels the same way as she appeared to.

I know of a community where there are housing for veterans, green lights around every corner and even designated parking for those who have risked their lives serving our country. That may not seem like a big thing to some of you reading that but to us it’s a way of unity and support; for those of you who don’t know I don’t live on a military base, it’s just a small town with big dreams making it a reality. Let me ask you, who is really heading off to war? I don’t believe it’s those of earlier generations but rather the “millennials,” here people aren’t forced to serve, but yet many people my age are choosing to do so. That just goes to show you that some of us “millennials” really do care about our past. Here’s something to remember, we are the future, I can’t speak for all those my age but I can say that there are some of us who truly care about preserving our past and impacting our future. As one of my professors recently said, “a textbook isn’t going to teach you everything you need to know; the true test of knowledge and education comes from real world experiences.” Our history hasn’t been written yet, we’re still figuring things out for ourselves where as those before us have already chosen their paths.

So I do apologize ma’am but you were wrong about us. Instead of critiquing and chastising how about talking to and helping us. Tell us your story, I’m sure you’d be surprised by who listens … probably more people than you think. Preserve your history and tell your story just like the people conducting the veteran’s interviews are trying to do. You don’t have to serve our country to talk to us, lend a hand and we’ll lend an ear. This generation may surprise you.