I would like to take a moment to respond to the post about the
ME generation. I assume many others besides myself on the list
fall into this so-called category. I find the pejorative nature
of this term most interesting - since it does come from the
generation before us - those parents against whom we were
rebelling in the 1960's for their shallow self-centered realities.
That generation, and not ours, is the one which has opted out of
interest in the common and international good. That generation is the
one which concerns itself soley with their own security -everyone
else be damned. That generation moves to Florida, Arizona et al to
go bowling and boating, and leaving their children and communities
to go it alone.
and that generation votes against funding for schools, and libraries -
whle wanting to live forever no matter what the expense. Those of us
in the so called ME generation - have been at the forefront of the fight
for social justice and the environment. And yeah - some of us realized
you have to nurture yourself if you want to have something to give.
So please, be more careful with your characterizations! We may not go
bowling, but we do belong to environmental groups - and I understand
what Putnam is saying about the lack of the face to face nature of these
groups - but engaged we are! It is our children who are doing community
service in record numbers! And are we ever glad!!! Now, if we could
just get the media to notice and stop portraying this generation the
way they do on Ricki Lake, Springer, Montel et al.
Let's also remember that no matter how civic minded we are as individuals,
and no matter how much community service we do, the system is more
insidious than ever. Clean up the communities around the refinery! Sure,
why would the refinery care? It's just less problems for them. We need
to make sure that with the engagement in service, students see that
the feel good experience is not enough - not to denigrate what they are
doing - it is good, valuable work - and I support it wholeheartedly. It
just should not become an excuse for complacency in the larger picture.
*******************************************************
Miriam Weinstein Making A Difference College Guide
Internet: sageworks@igc.apc.org SageWorks Press
Phone: +1 (415) 258-9924 POB 150488
Fax: +1 (415) 258-9924 San Rafael, CA 94915-0488
********************************************************