Catch 22: Oh the Joys of Being 22 with a 22-Month-Old
As a 22-year-old with a 22-month-old son, I often hear people dismiss my age as “whatever” or “just a number.” But being born in the year 2000 is more than another year, it marks a turn of a century. It’s a defining factor that has shaped my experiences and those of my peers. It has also given us a unique perspective on the world that sets us apart from previous generations.
Growing up as a digital native, we have seen the world change rapidly around us. We have experienced the rise of social media and the impact it has had on our relationships and communities. We have lived through the Great Recession and the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, which have had a profound effect on our worldview and our sense of agency.
Now, as we enter the workforce, we face both challenges and opportunities. Many of us carry the burden of student loan debt and face uncertain job prospects. But we are also more diverse, more educated, and more technologically savvy than any previous generation. We have the potential to make a real impact on the world, and I am ready to start!
The changing workforce also presents us with an opportunity to step up and take on leadership roles as older generations retire. We can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table and help shape the future of our workplaces and communities. We are the ones who will be responsible for leading the charge on issues such as sustainability, innovation, and equality. But we can’t do it alone. Our responsibility extends beyond just ourselves and our own futures. We have a duty to work together across generations to address the pressing issues of our time. Climate change, social inequality, and economic instability are just a few of the challenges we face. It’s up to us to take action and advocate for change.
So, what can we do? There are a variety of ways young people can make a positive impact on the world. We can volunteer our time and resources to support causes we believe in. We can vote in elections and advocate for policies that align with our values. We can use our voices to raise awareness and bring attention to important issues. And we can support businesses and organizations that prioritize sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility. I plan to all of the above this upcoming summer.
In conclusion, being 22 and born in 2000 is not just “whatever.” It’s a unique position that comes with both challenges and opportunities. I am just days away from my final exam this term and my 23rd birthday. We 2000 babies are usually the same age as the last two digits of whatever the current year is, for the most part, but I do want to throw a special shoutout there for all my current 22 year olds today. DO NOT SQUANDER OUR YOUTHFUL YEARS. We have the potential to make a real impact on the world, but it requires us to step up and take action. By working together across generations, we can create a better future for ourselves and for the generations that come after us. So let’s embrace our age and our position in the world and show everyone what we’re capable of. Remember age is but a number, so I wish all my readers of all ages the best of best when it comes to all of y’all future endeavors. Keep in mind, THE POWER IS YOURS!
