We need each other

Baby Boomers have often been called the "Me Generation" as they pursued their careers and affluent lifestyles. From my perspective, they were instrumental in helping our culture turn from one of "work your fingers to the bone only to get bony fingers" to "working hard for their money and having fun while doing it." In other words, striving for some life balance is an admirable goal. Gen Xer's came along and attempted to create even more of a balance between work and home. What concerns me about the latest group is that they seem to be swinging so far over to self that I might say they are the "Not You Generation." This shift is alarming to me. We are made for relationship and connection; we need each other. Text messages, IM's and social media are a false, flat and one-dimensional contact that lacks depth, sincerity and emotion. I don't believe they are intentionally building a wall around themselves, but the result is the same: loneliness. Stats are reporting the increase in depression and feeling of isolation. What is even scarier to me is how these folks are influencing all others. In an attempt to keep up, everyone seems to be forgoing traditional ways of communicating and connecting, interacting less. I'm not saying that all these modes are bad, but let's remember that a computer screen or phone display will never replace the sense of touch from a pat on the back or warm embrace from a friend. We are humans, and we need each other!