One of the most common arguments I see on Facebook are by adults who say my peers, and my friends are a bunch of coddled, and sheltered human beings who are cowards because we weren't shoved into a war-torn country, shot a rifle, or haven't dropped a bomb on a village of human beings. These statements usually originate from conservative ideologies, and in turn Republican ones. Their version of bravery is battle. This is absolutely preposterous.
1. Each generation has had their share of issues.
Saying that My Generation hasn't gone to war and in turn are cowardly because we aren't faced with WW III is painting every one of my peers with a single stroke. Although yes, there are more mental health issues, and depressed teens in My Generation, this doesn't make 18-year-olds that went off to war any better. Many lost their lives, and many were forever changed by the Depression, and by constant fear of death and dismemberment at such an early age. (PTSD) My Generation has the blessing to have steered clear of imminent and immediate danger to our country, and many have chosen to go to college and get an education. A luxury The Greatest Generation simply didn't have.
2. Bravery doesn't just come in shooting a gun or dropping a bomb.
These statements often disregard the true meaning of bravery. Bravery is not achieved only through violence or saving a damsel in distress. Bravery comes from conquering our demons. Sometimes that means battling depression. Sometimes this means turning the other cheek in a verbal dispute, and sometimes this means loving our enemy. We cannot self-define bravery to only be achieved by placing our lives on the line. Bravery comes in many forms.
3. Our ancestors felt the same about the young.
Travel back 2000 years, the old always complained about the young. This is nothing new. When will people realize that every generation shares their version of trials and tribulations and comparison is a double edged sword? There is no shortage of complaints of the young and of the old. There is no shortage of those who died in battle, and those who have lost a part of their body, or even their minds from such tales of bloodshed on the field of battle. No reason to compare The Greatest Generation and My Generation.
