Passing the torch

To the Editor:

My 74 years have given me the opportunity to see recurring patterns in our society. As we Baby Boomers careened into adulthood, many developed an inchoate sense that something wasn't quite right. The formula, “follow the rules and you will be rewarded,” became suspect, its promise of happiness in some distant future lost its grip. This was prescient thinking, something that has become clearer in the ensuing years, and it led many in my generation to ponder what can make life truly meaningful. This led to witness and action that ended the Vietnam War and made progress in racial and gender equality. This spirit of social awareness and action continues today.

But people being people, lack of insight and the competitive pressures distracted these efforts. Ending the military draft removed the immediacy of war from consciousness, and with it much of the zeal for social involvement and change. And then there was the ever-present seduction of money. Someone noted the similarity between the peace symbol and the Mercedes-benz logo. The real tragedy, as we are now seeing, was missing the opportunity to address the growing effect of greenhouse gasses on our climate. Kicking that can down the road has permitted if not created the crisis we face today.

The failure of my generation to further social change leading to an equitable and just sharing of the benefits of society has led the current generation to question the promises of neoliberal capitalism. These modern “hippies” are beginning to feel the need for revolutionary action to help save the planet and equitably distribute its bounty. It's their turn. Let's support them for their benefit and ours.

Phil Nichols

Sonora