Millennials

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Learning to drive provided me a sense of independency and showed me a path to becoming a better, more trustworthy person. Learning to drive was an exhilarating experience. I had always been apprehensive about the idea. I am still not sure I would have taken the leap if I had not been given a slight push. A little over a year ago, I was filled with grief and fear, the sole provider for my children. I felt helpless and abandoned. My children’s father had recently been incarcerated. Not only did I lose a fellow caretaker, he had also been my chauffer. My family decided I needed a little persuasion. For my birthday, I received certificates for driving lessons with the same instructor who had taught my sister. It took me some time to gather up the courage, but eventually I scheduled my first lesson. The instructor’s name was John. I was not quite sure how I felt about him at the first meeting. He seemed absent minded and not especially helpful. After a couple lessons, I learned that was his technique, making individuals feel as if they were driving with a friend rather than being instructed. His mindless ranting eased my tension and let me concentrate on driving without realizing. I had gained a new freedom I had never experienced before, able to go places and plan activities. Before I could drive, I felt entitled to help whenever I needed to get around. I figured just because I offered gas money, it would be immediately accepted. I learned quickly that situation only works with taxis, and they are expensive. Suddenly, with this new found freedom, I could travel wherever I wanted without having to consult anyone. About a month after having my license, I decided to go on a road trip to Maryland. Previously, even getting to work was a struggle. With three kids to drive around and finally ending at your destination, asking others for rides was a lot of work. Being able to drive made me not have to work around others’ schedules as much. My life was now my own and easier to maneuver. With generations becoming intertwined, the younger people are being relied on more and more to be in charge. Without that necessary skill, young individuals continue to rely on others. Between Uber, truckers, or even delivery drivers, transportation is taking up a large piece of industry. Without a license, a good percentage of jobs are being cut out of availability.

Young adults of this generation form close bonds with each other despite different living situations. We all had to grow up too quickly and play roles we were not meant to. Regardless of the situation, we all know we are not alone even when we feel we are isolated. Even other generations see the burden we are presented with and attempt to connect through support and guidance. Nothing in life is impossible and if seen in the right light, even the worst situations can shape us into better people. Even through difficulties, I see this generation as one of the most powerful through resources and connections. Bonds are formed even through the slightest interaction. Hard times can bring out the best in people and show they are not alone, leading the pathway to a brighter future.