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A Message to Generation Alpha, from Generation Z

Opinion

July 08, 2024

Despite the differences in technological advancements and societal structure across generations, one trait has been shared by all: humanity. It is a broad yet defining word for everyone who has lived on this planet and who passes the torch of existence to one another. For Generation Alpha, understanding the emergence of humanity and its importance is crucial to avoid repeating past mistakes and allow for a better quality of life.

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Aspects of Humanity and Simplicity

Humanity has many aspects. One of the most significant parts of what makes you human is the need to be remembered. Whether through status and wealth or a speck of fame, being heard and acknowledged is universally desired by all.

To fulfill this desire, people fill their lives with complexity, whether through advanced ranks in the workforce (such as the rat race and the corporate ladder) or by other means. The moral is, Generation Alpha, that we have come to fear simplicity. We have tricked ourselves into believing that it leads to misfortune. With these fears growing rampant over decades, society teaches us that simple life will lead to a struggle to survive—a struggle to be remembered long past our death and initial existence.

As a result, Generation Alpha has been raised in a world that praises hard work and merit and underestimates the importance of rest and proper reflection. Please note this is not any generation’s fault. It is simply a fact of human nature to use our unique intelligence to fuel innovation and seek fulfillment/remembrance.

While the facets of technology and the wonders of complexity certainly have contributed to Earth, they have potentially overlooked downsides. While we are the species that reached the moon, humans are also the culprits for the 100 trillion pieces of junk in space. Moreover, people collectively cherish approximately 1.9 billion trees planted each year while forgetting that our species is responsible for 3.5-7 billion trees cut down each year. The world continues to destroy itself and spend an enormous amount of effort for its reparations.

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The Truth About Generational Change

Generation Alpha, people may have told you that you can change the world and reverse issues passed down from generations ago. This is only partly true. Realistically, a single generation cannot reverse centuries of significant issues, such as food insecurity and conflict.

While Generation Alpha can solve small-scale issues that have emerged over time, it will take many more generations to make substantial changes in this world. These efforts will require both simplicity and complexity, as previously discussed. If it “takes a village to raise a child,” it will take centuries of human efforts to change Earth.

However, what is purely factual is that Generation Alpha can mark progress toward positive changes. This will require members of your generation to redirect society toward onward movements. We must understand that improving the Earth and solving global problems may increase people’s success (this applies to certain aspects of society).

Change is inevitable, but positive change can only be ensured when generations dedicate themselves to achieving it. You, Generation Alpha, have the potential to make a significant impact.

A Smaller Scale: Down to Each Person

While Generation Alpha can group everyone born between 2010 and 2024, it comprises people with unique senses of self, thoughts, and feelings. Just like other generations, everyone has personal goals and long-term strategies to achieve their definition of success.

It is understandable that completely dedicating oneself to positive changes cannot be achieved since humans are devoted to themselves, their communities, and the planet. This limits the amount of change occurring per generation, but it can only partially limit human efforts.

It cannot be assumed that previous generations (other than Generation Alpha) have not contributed toward positive efforts. However, the ability to acknowledge that change is a long-term process on a global scale is significant in keeping each generation motivated. The future of humans must have realistic intentions, not optimistic or pessimistic ones, to acknowledge the tides of change. Acknowledging personal responsibility is critical to fulfilling a positive future.

Generational Knowledge

One fortunate fact of generational existence is that every generation learns about the world using the “blueprints” of previous ones. This allows technological and educational discoveries to remain throughout history. It is why people continue to enjoy folktales from thousands of years ago and study different subjects today.

Overall, knowledge concepts increase the potential for positive efforts over time. If Generation Alpha uses the discoveries of our time to ensure a proper future, this will mark significant progress toward a healthier, cleaner world. This is why this message remains with you, Generation Alpha. The fate of humanity is within your reach.

To contribute to this movement over time, members of Generation Alpha must acknowledge their upcoming roles in society, embrace their humanity, and ensure the prosperity of positive human efforts. By using both complexity and simplicity in various facets of life, I am confident that Generation Alpha can effectively fight for a chance for change—a chance for redemption.

A chance to be remembered.

Kelly Halliburton
50k+ pageviews

Writer since May, 2022 · 32 published articles

Kelly Halliburton is a member of the Creative Writing Conservatory at Orange County School of the Arts in Santa Ana, California. As a former editor for The Teen Magazine, she enjoys writing poetry and volunteering. Through exploring themes of student life and personal growth, she aspires to project meaningful ideas in the community.

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