The Greatest Generation

[seymoure]

Those who lived through the Great Depression and fought in the Second World War are called that, and not without reason. The did what needed to be done, and then got on with needed to be done next. They started with little and made much and saw that their children were better off than they had been. But, there was even more than that. Expectation. Back then you expected even handedness. Craftsmanship was a part of business and it was a pitiful man who sold inferior quality products. When you shook hands with someone, that meant something, most deals didn't need contracts. When you were found to have done a wrong, you were shamed, not by others, but by your self. Why? It was what was expected. Not by society. Not by government. It was what you expected of yourself and others. Naive? Most heroic ideals are. But, if the world is to turn around, there is only one way to do it. Starting with yourself, and extending, by example, to others, you must make yourself better. The better person that you wanted to be when you were 5 years old and needed heroes. Folks who did good, not because they would get something for it, but because that is what you do. Next time you are in a situation and see yourself about to take the easy (but not altogether noble) way out, stop. Refuse. No one has to know but you. And you will feel better about yourself. And it will get easier to do. Never easy, but easier. Until you get to the point where there is no choice, doing what you know is right is who you are, and that is a point of greatness that needs no trumpets. The music is in your soul. Then you are the greatest generation.