New Seniors

The flame from a single candle lights up ones own little corner, but the flames of many candles light up the world. What we believe can have an illuminating affect on our immediate surroundings such as family and friends. However, what we do in our communities and beyond shines a spotlight on ways to make a difference and cause positive change while attracting others to join us in these efforts.

Remember the way people flocked to town hall meetings to listen to what the politicians had to say about health care? Even more exciting was how these elected representatives were confronted by angry citizens protesting the programs the government was trying to push through. Although the wishes of the voters were widely ignored, this is an election year. So any such gatherings should prove interesting.

An unrepresentative form of government, or one that treats the majority of Americans that way, may be the reason behind the President’s plummeting approval rating and why so many Congressional incumbents facing re-election in November are likely to be sent home rather than back to Washington. Less than 18 months after the new administration was seated, citizens are dissatisfied with the direction in which the country is going, especially those 65+.

If you think you know what its like to be 65, how about answering these questions. What’s it feel like to be retired? Do you remember how old you were when you realized you were 65? How far into the future do you make plans? Have people gotten up so you can have a seat? When was the first time someone called you an old-timer (fogey, coot, geezer or as a senior) ? If you haven’t experienced any of these just wait. It’ll happen.

Don’t be put off by this bold statement, but don’t dismiss it either. The plans for this country were drawn up by the founding fathers. Our ancestors who came here believed in the promise America offered and found a place where they could be free to pursue their dreams. They built the country. Now it’s time to remodel.

Surveys indicate that today’s parents are afraid their children will not have a life as good as theirs. As grandparents and great grandparents, the pre-boomers have the time and the experience to help solve this problem by getting involved with their local school board and volunteering to help at the individual school level. After all, don’t these kids deserve the opportunities past generations gave us?

It’s a fact, New Seniors play an important role in the election process. While accounting for about 13% of the population, in this year’s primaries and general elections, we are expected to cast 30% of the ballots. Yes, New Seniors have the power to change the outcome of many elections. The question is, “do you believe it’s time for change?”

In these tough times, there is a dire need for balance in business, finance, government and everyday life.  Since the Greatest Generation has moved to the sidelines, with the youngest of them being 80, the country has no one to turn to for adult guidance.  Has everyone forgotten about the Pre-boomers, the more than 30 million Americans born between 1930 and 1945?

At least 30 million people living in America are illiterate.  This includes students who don’t read to their grade level as well as adults who never learned this vital skill.  Interestingly, there are more 30 million pre-boomers living here too.  If those of us born between 1930 and 1945 helped just one person to learn to read it would go a long way in wiping out illiteracy.