Former US senator, Sam Ervin, Jr. is quoted as saying “Adversity is the diamond dust with which life polishes its jewels.” This got me reflecting on how much of our world tries become adversity-free.
This is true not only because of technology, but also because of marketing and other elements of our culture that promote the idea the we, as Americans, should be able to point and click our way through life without suffering consequences.
While those of us in our thirties and older, may remember clearly the burnishing process we
went through in our youth, I am not so sure about many of those within the Millennial generation. We are all a function of our environment. But when you grow up in an environment that promotes entitlement and convenience at every step, I have to wonder about the point at which one embraces the where-with-all to develop the endurance to overcome obstacles large and small.
Yes, I am sure there are many Millennials who do face their own crucibles because of broken family structures, money and negative influences within the community. But I also have to wonder why so many young people from seemingly blessed environments can’t seem to navigate the challenges placed before them without immediately turning to parents, managers, teachers and other adults for answers. At what point do we force them to sink or swim?
Look around your environment. Whose butt might you be tempted to save today? Might not they be better off if you let them discover the diamond dust that will polish them into a jewel?