Why the divide if we agree on goal?

September 9th, 2009 at 08:31am Linda Grist Cunningham

This is the time for evolution, for close-to-home improvements that make a difference and lay the ground work for sweeping revolution in the next decade. This country needs, not tweaking and a repair job, but a complete replacing of the systems that support finance, infrastructure, education, immigration, health care, environmental security and defense.

The temptation is to upend and replace them all — right now. It is the agenda promised with the election of Barak Obama, and it is the agenda that most Americans want. We know there must be changes — and soon. We want them now. So, if we want them and support them, why in the world are we so divided? Why can’t we get the players to the table and work through the obstacles that will do the most good for the most people?

Because, simply put, we are not ready. Since they were first born right after World War II, the baby boomers have been the centers of their universes. We were taught by our parents that the one was greater than the whole. The mantra of the generation has always been: It’s all about ME. What’s in it for ME? It’s OK if you have to give it up, but not ME.

And thus is framed every argument against those seven crucial reforms. Eventually the mood will shift, somewhere in the next decade. When the Millennials, who are just now entering their power years take over and they will, the discussion will be shaped differently. It will be what’s best for the group, even if the individual must give it up.And, when that happens, we will get reform — reform that looks almost identical to the plans setting today’s tables.

Keep listening. Know what’s in the reform plans and make your plans accordingly. They will happen. Most likely not now, or not well now. But come 2015-2020? Sure. All done. And it will look easy.

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