Arhoni Y Ezung
BSc 5th semester (Geology), Model Christian College
I chose to speak in this topic because this is something that I was really curious and concern about the generation gaps and differences. It is important for me to build relationship with the people of different generation i live with, and for society to progress as a whole.
“We need to remember across generation that there as much to learn as there is to teach” Gloria Steinem
Generation X (1965-1980)
Generation Grew Up During The Transition From Analogy To Digital Technology. They witnessed the birth of cell phone and the internet. However they are not dependent as the next generation. They were self reliant, for instance, they can do mental calculation quite effortless and retain information better. They grew up with minimal adult supervision, quickly learning the values of independence and work-life balance. My mom would always tee me that during their time. A 9-10 yrs old girl would be able to cook and take care of the younger ones while the boys would assist and help their parents in the field. Gen X is considered to be very systematic, disciplined and responsible people.
Millennial (1981-1996)
On the other hand, millennial are considered the pioneers of the digital age. They are more tolerant of different races, religions and diverse culture than the older generation. The millennial are considered the mediators who have seen and understood the previous generation and at the same time relate to the succeeding generation. For this, they are instrumental in bringing the gaps. Although, they witnessed the use of social media and digital means of communication, they also retain some of the positive traits of the earlier generation. For example, they deeply value quality time and family connection unlike the next generation.
Generation Z (1997-2012)
Generation Z fortunately or unfortunately has not seen the world without the internet. They grew up with lightning fast internet connection from a very young age. I belong to this generation and we heavily depend on technology and have accepted it as a normal part of life. We feel handicapped without it. For instance, the absence of the internet will terrify us most, than the earlier two generations. This generation connect with the world more than people within our community. As such, our way of life is easily influenced by popular culture through different types of social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Gen Z on the other hand is considered the most technologically savvy and pragmatic people.
There is a great cultural and technological division between the previous and the present generation. From “face-to-face communication to “text and SMS” and now to “emojis”. With innovation and technology our language has also been distorted from the correct way of speaking “Hello! What are you doing?” to “watcha doin?”
The deterioration of respect by the present generation toward the elders also causes a gap unfortunately this has been a problem of our generation.
The adamant insistence of structure and rigid mindset of the older generation alienate themselves from the younger ones and this disengagement from the present generation equally contributes to the widening of this gap.
“Every generation needs regeneration” Charles Spurgeon.
Building communication to me is the initial step one can take to bridge this gap. I personally feel this is a very deep and profound way to really connect and compromise. However, this requires the core existence of patience, listening with respect and learning their values. The world is changing and will continue to change, adaptability and accountability is the key here. For example, the younger generations can be less dependent on technology and learn the struggle of handwork and the importance of moral value and respect for others. The older generations likewise can take some steps toward bringing this gap. They can be more open minded and be willing to learn the importance of diversity and being dynamic. Infract, every one of us gather here today have a huge opportunity to help break this barrier. Only if we allow ourselves to see what each of us brings to the table and understand one another.
This speech was adjudged the second position of the ‘Kohima Youth Talk’ organised by Don Bosco College Kohima (DBCK) during its 4th Inter Collegiate Competition on September 3.
