To everyone born in the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s, congratulations! You’ve lived through a time of incredible change and challenges, and your resilience is something to be celebrated. From the way you grew up to the lessons you learned, your generation has shaped the world in remarkable ways.
Think about it: you survived being born to mothers who might have smoked or drank during pregnancy, ate foods now considered risky, and didn’t have the medical testing we take for granted today. Your baby cots were painted with lead-based colors, and safety measures like childproof lids and bike helmets were unheard of. Yet, here you are, thriving.
You rode in cars without seatbelts, drank water from garden hoses, and shared sodas with friends—all without a second thought. You played outside from morning until the streetlights came on, building go-carts, climbing trees, and making mud pies. You didn’t have smartphones, the internet, or video games, but you had something even better: real friendships and the freedom to explore.
Your generation learned to solve problems, take risks, and handle disappointment. You didn’t have parents swooping in to fix every mistake—instead, you grew up understanding responsibility and consequences. And look at what you’ve achieved! The past 50 years have seen incredible innovation, and much of it can be traced back to the creativity and determination of your generation.
So, take a moment to celebrate yourselves. You’ve lived through a unique era, and your experiences have made you strong, resourceful, and inspiring. Here’s to you!