A significant number of the "twenty somethings" in this country can not define sovereignty, do not have a deep sense of patriotism, and seem oblivious that thier actions have consequences.
Throughout America's history, the country had to defend its existence, fight for its independence, or respond to threats or attacks. In most of these cases, the majority of Americans bonded together, held hands, and shouted in one loud voice that we will not be defeated!
Most of our younger generation have not experienced this. No significant opportunity to witness such unification has occurred. In the mean time, many of us have taught our children that they are precious and special. That their desires and dreams outweigh all others. We've rewarded simple participation and marginalized those that work for the best in themselves. We have instilled some insane notion that our youth can demand absolutely everyone must accept their ideas, choices, or whims; no matter how far beyond the norm.
They now demand instant gratification in many aspects of their lives. They want what they want....and they want it now! If they are refused, they scream equality /racism / homophobe / nazi or whatever else the TV or social media has told them they are a victim of.
There seems to be this notion that they are entitled to the same as everyone else, no matter the circumstance. Equality.
What they really want is equal outcome, without equal adaptation or effort. The premise of this country was to provide equal opportunity,... just opportunity.
We need to teach our children that, in the real world, their feelings are largely irrelevant. Employers rarely care how you feel about the task you're assigned. We should assure them that they have a skill and encourage them to develop that skill. That in reality, they may not be able to become anything they choose. That they have the same rights as everyone else, but those rights end the minute they infringe on someone else's. Teach them that they are unique, but demanding anyone else accept their individual personality is a waste of time. Some will, some won't. Be prepared to be offended. It will happen often. And when it does, they have the right to....... nothing! Being offended is part of life. Accept it and move on. Finally, teach them patriotism. Let them know what it means to live free, the price paid for that freedom, and the consequences of losing it.
