Tags
boomers, children, color, economy, family, gay, harmony, Millennials, mother, parents, people of colour, queer, racism, respect, youth
I am riding that Baby Boomer tail.
I am also the caboose in one resilient and large Catholic family.
I am a white woman, a parent and a survivor. As a woman over 50 I feel invisible to most eligible men. I do not have a reliable partner, don’t own my home nor can I afford to travel to tropical locations every winter. I will be lucky if I can retire in comfort by the time I turn 60 years old.
Whenever discussing retirement plans with friends or colleagues, I joke that my insurance was to be extra patient with and kind to my children so that they will take care of me in my old age.
My beautiful adult children are Millennials. They are testing out their respective paths, life purpose and independence. Some are taking a little longer than others due to childhood trauma or the ridiculous limitations of the economy.
My Millennials were not handed everything on a platter. We were barely scraping by in the early years while surviving home life with an unstable, controlling individual.
It saddens and frustrates me when the older generations and entertainers poke fun at Millennials.
You’ve Gotta Love Millennials – Micah Tyler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLpE1Pa8vvI
A few weeks ago, my oldest Millennial and I watched a documentary on TVO (TV Ontario). It was interesting but discouraging.
“Millennials are getting dumped on from all sides – from parents, employers and the economy. “My Millennial Life” takes a look through the eyes of a group of resourceful, charming and talented 20-somethings and the obstacles and opportunities they face in getting launched and making their mark on the world.”
Then there was this article on CBC News:
Still living with mom and dad? You are not alone, and the numbers prove it
Almost a third of 18- to 34-year-olds still live at home, data shows
http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/young-people-living-at-home-1.3599364
I love my Millennial room-mate who cooks healthy meals, cleans the humble apartment once a week, and looks after the cats while I am away – all the while using artistic skills to earn a modest income.
On a related, rippling note I am sad to acknowledge recent violent events south of the border. Some parental concerns and human rights issues catch your interest even more so if your Millennials are also dark-skinned, dealing with social anxieties or are gay.
They would seem to be fncked whichever way they turn. I know they can overcome challenges with courage, intelligence and strength of character.
I believe in them.
T
Deep Blonde Thoughts 
The following comment is from Bobbi who doesn’t have a WordPress account, but sent her comments through email and wanted me to share them here.
“Theresa, I really appreciated your thoughts in your latest blog on
Millennials. I hate when pundits dump people into categories. Teens are
lazy and irresponsible? How about the 15-year-old boy across the street
from me who comes over whenever I ask, to help with chores and also
share his computer expertise. He’s a joy in every respect.
The elderly are forgetful, easy prey to scams, and not involved in
current affairs? I’m 81, and my mind is as sharp as it was thirty years
ago. I follow U.S., Canadian, and world politics closely, write
regularly for a variety of publications, and stay in touch with a wide
variety of friends.”
T
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