Do you rely on determination or luck to build the bridge to your goals . . . .
One of the fundamental themes in Reflection of Memories is . . .
“Don’t let the elements of your birth define who you are or how you live your life.”
For those of you who have read either or both of my novels in The Malone Family Saga, you know that Richard Malone and Caroline Sue Miller are from totally different backgrounds — economically and socially. However, both of them are driven, goal-oriented individuals who strive to do their best in order to attain their dreams. Although their story is fictitious, the attitude of those two protagonists is as real as those individuals who were actually born in the 1920s and 1930s.
Unlike many of today’s youth — who feel as if they deserve tangible rewards for producing little effort — who believe fairness is a right and success is a natural “given” — who wail “poor me” because of the circumstances of their birth — the generation who was conceived in The Great Depression did not feel entitled. Instead, they worked hard for their goals and dreams. They were disciplined, tenacious and determined. Their perseverance and attitude were often their strongest attributes and laid the foundation for how much success they would eventually achieve. They did not wait for life to give them a handout — they went into the world working to make their dreams come true and creating their own “luck.”
In my humble opinion, it would behoove all of us — and definitely benefit our next generation — if we would rethink our philosophy with regards to rearing children. Instead of pampering them — trying always to make their lives easier — creating the concept that fairness can be a cornerstone in their lives and a reality for all — never allowing them to fail or accept responsibility for their actions — perhaps — instead — we should consider reintroducing and instilling those extremely valuable traits upon which our ancestors built their lives.
Is determination an attribute of yours, or do you wait for luck to be the deciding factor? Do you have an opinion?
In honor of the beautiful fall colors — I have included a second picture and an additional quote: this one from Mark Twain. Although the highly respected American author lived well over 100 years ago, his sage advice is equally as current today. We should all heed Mark Twain’s words and pave our own path in life. Don’t wait for it to happen — MAKE IT HAPPEN!
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Love this blog!! What you have written is so true! I feel so sorry for this next generation. They have little idea what hard work and determination are. And it is partly because their parents (our kids) had it too easy. A little deprivation is a good thing at times! My kids have grown up with “NO, we can’t afford it” but probably not enough!! Keep up the great blog. You’re doing a great job!!
I’m with you, Wendy Dorn! We do not do our children any favors by making their lives easy and giving them everything they want — when they want it. The word “No” has its advantages. My daddy always said, “Things worth having — are worth working for.” His grammar wasn’t great — but he was correct. When children have “too much” and get it too easily, they don’t really appreciate what they have nor do they take care of it. Very sad.
On a lighter note . . . thank you for your positive words of encouragement — and thanks for joining my blog.
You are exactly right! Many years ago I had the pleasure of teaching Kindergarten at Charlotte Country Day. I learned early on that money, the abundance of or the absence of, does not insulate one from problems! But one year John Rosemen was called in my one of my parents to help their child. The entire process was about keeping the child’s self image positive. And of course my role was to touch his shoulder in a reassuring way every FIVE MINUTES during the day! Needless to say after explaining to Dr Rosemen that the solution was not acceptable, as I had 20 other children, that regrouping with a better solution was needed. Long story short my last year at MIS I was honored to hear Dr Roseman speak again! I admit I had gone with some hesitation because I thought he was wrong in the 80′-90’s and was expecting no different. Imagine my surprise when he began his talk with the question, “what’s wrong with the youth of today?”
Boy, my hand was in the air as I was sure I’d not get another opportunity like that. He took the wind right out of my sails by saying, parents had listened to the likes of him! He said I was wrong! You can’t give a child self esteem or self confidence without allowing them to fail, be disappointed and learn to pick themselves up and try again!
Amazing how something so simple became so complicated just because we as parents wanted to take the easy route to “growing up”
My Blog has been down — stumbling with a few “glitches” — please forgive me, Connie Austin, if I have already responded to your sagacious comment. Whether I have or have not — I want to respond again. YES! you nailed it! Thanks for sharing your experience and your wisdom.
I love, love, love that you took the time to write this experience. I hope many people read it. Thanks for sharing???