For us War Babies (who were born or were young children during World War II) the America in which we grew up was a very different place from what it is today. Americans were proud of our country, and positive and optimistic about the future. We had saved the world from the Nazis, led the world in creating a new international order to prevent future wars, had a robust, growing economy that provided opportunity for everyone — and were the world’s beacon of democracy. Although we still had serious issues — racism, antisemitism, misogyny, etc. — we were making real progress toward realizing our ideals.
Above all, we War Babies intensely appreciate the preciousness of American democracy. We remember what can happen when democracy is assaulted. And we understand what’s at stake for our grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The reality today is that we’re living in a country where half of Americans feel that the American dream no longer applies to them. And they voted accordingly. With the assault on America by the Trump administration, the existential question facing each of us who did not vote for this assault is: What can I do, and what will I do, now?
My proposal for War Babies and friends:
- First: let’s connect, and let’s talk. Let’s begin by sharing our thoughts and feelings as elders. How can I move from despair to hope? From discouragement to purpose? What learning, inspiration and support can we get from each other in community? What possible actions could I as an elder take now?
- Then: let’s invite younger people to join us. Let’s offer them our attention, wisdom, and support in confronting the same questions that we are. Let’s learn from each other.
- Let’s be a community during the the tumultuous times that are coming for sustaining hope and purpose.
Please let me know if you’re interested!
Aryae