Look Who is on the Front Line

I will admit it; I owe Millennials an apology.  I was one of those who poked fun at them.  I chuckled when I was introduced to the Millennial Nativity scene, with Mary holding her latte from Starbucks, Joseph taking selfies on his iphone and the Magi arriving on segaways, rather than camels.  I laughed at the satirical video promoting a ministry to sponsor a Millennial in the same way we do a child in Africa.  

The pandemic has brought out the best in the Millennial Generation.  As a cohort they have risen to the top and might be the heroes of this international crisis.  They had a reputation for being narcissistic and lazy.  Known as the “Trophy Kids,” we mocked their need for constant affirmation.  Sorry, but we under estimated the determination, caring and compassionate nature of these young folks.  They have become the warriors in this battle. 

The Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation have heeded the warning and sheltered at home.  The members of Generation X have worried about the economic impact and how the pandemic has affected they 401 K’s.  The youngest cohort, Gen Z;s, seemed to be the least concern, almost as if to say “party on, what’s the big deal.”  Millennials on the other hand have risen to the top and taken the lead in getting us through this catastrophe.  Many of them are the first responders and front-line medical personnel who are daily fighting the battle.  They are the ones who have most easily adjusted to working at home, after all it was always their preference.

The generation that had a reputation as being self-focused as suddenly become the caretakers.  They are the ones who are encouraging their parents to shelter at home, often taking on the responsibility to make sure their needs are met.  When everything is settled and we are able to again gather in groups and move about without fear, we will owe the young folks who got us through this a word of thanks. 

I was wrong… Millennials are getting us through this.