...For Those Seeking to Understand a New Generation 

Our kids are so different from the one’s our folks raised.
They don’t obey without reason, they’re not easily fazed.
Their test scores have fallen, about school they don’t care.
They’re street smart, brand conscious and socially aware!
They don’t leap to their feet to show elders respect,
after all there’s “that image” they’ve got to protect.
They often make headlines and the news is not good --
Yes, Generation Why is surely misunderstood.

The Boomers cry out that “teens don’t know their place --
when you try to correct them, they’re right in your face!
They’re lacking in patience; they are easily bored.
The effort’s not there, but they demand the reward!
We’ve given and given and what’s so unnerving . . .
they keep asking for more -- as if they’re deserving!
They don’t understand me -- so who is to blame?
‘Cause I’m doing what I’ve always done, but the results ain’t the same!”

But let us be cautious, non-judgemental, and wise
and draw on compassion to see the world through their eyes . . .

The airwaves are jammed with sex, violence, and rage.
It’s brought to extinction “the innocent age.”
Real heroes among us, but who gets applause?
Celebrity icons with character flaws.
You can break all the rules and if you get caught
a “not guilty” verdict is easily bought.
The music is bleak and the lyrics keep humming --
“Just live for today ’cause tomorrow’s not coming!”

Though often maligned what reports fail to mention
(about these sixty million kids craving love and attention)
is the talent they possess and the drive to make better
the world where we live and our time here together.
What they need are role models who’ll turn on the light
-- and show by example what is morally right --
who know they seek answers and will attend to that need.
You and I are those people, and it’s our time to lead.

There’s promise, I tell you, just look in their eyes. . .
You’ll see hope for the future in our Generation Whys!

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