My manager and I had a discussion yesterday that parallels this post. We are both near 50 and raised in an era when the back of mom's hand took care of any smart-mouthing. Unfortunately, we are now facing a generation of incoming workforce members who were raised by schools and day care centers that were given all the responsiblity, but none of the authority, in rearing our nation's children.
I was raised to show respect to everyone. The fact that I may be more learned or financially sound than others, does not put me above them. Today's youngsters, whose parents spoiled them beyond rotten because they felt guilty that both parents worked, have no clue about the real world. To them, society owes them the standard of living their parents worked so hard to provide, with no inclination of appreciation or respect.
Before anyone gets their feathers ruffled - this does not mean everyone. I have had the pleasure of dealing with many young people who were fortunate enough to have parents that reared them to be responsible, caring adults; however, they are not the norm.
As for this group of people who now believe their s*#t doesn't stink, their time is coming. No matter what, you still reap what you sow. Although I do not condone guilt or pity parties, they will have to live with themselves and how they treated their parents or other elders. In addition, they will rear children who treat them in the exact same way - getting in return what they deserve.
I, for one, believe it is my duty to raise my son to fear the wrath of God and his mother! Not in an abusive or debasing manner, but by demanding his respect. There may come a day when he decides to push the limits. Rest assured that his mean old mom will push right back. Just by virtue of the fact that I've been on this earth a hell of a lot longer and have just a little bit more knowledge, gives me the right to be treated with that respect, which by the way, I return in kind.
Well, now that I've given my Saturday morning soap-box sermon - tell your daughter she is very smart and very strong to stand up to these impetulent little b-----s. Tell her I said - 'YOU GO, GIRL.' |