"The Quiet Strength of the Next Generation"

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to witness something that left a lasting impression on me. I didn’t speak to the young man who caught my attention — I simply observed from a distance. What stood out wasn’t anything loud or attention-seeking. It was his quiet strength, his maturity, and the way he responded to challenge after challenge without frustration or complaint.

Obstacle after obstacle came his way, and still, he pressed forward, focused on completing the tasks in front of him. He didn’t get angry. He didn’t argue. He didn’t make a scene. He stayed calm, collected, and intentional. In that moment, I saw what we often overlook: the depth and resilience that so many young people carry.

There’s a common stereotype that the younger generation isn’t ready — that they lack the maturity or discipline to navigate life’s difficulties. And sure, some skills only come with time and exposure, but let’s be honest — there are people twice their age still stuck in the same reactive patterns. Age does not guarantee maturity. Growth does.

What impressed me most about this young man was his solution-based mindset. He wasn’t interested in going back and forth with anyone. He wasn’t trying to “prove a point.” He was focused on the solution, not the drama.

It reminded me of something my therapist once told me: “After going back and forth with someone, what is actually resolved?” That question stuck with me. Most times, the answer is nothing — nothing but wasted energy and emotional exhaustion. And yet, how often do we fall into that trap? Arguing, complaining on social media, venting without direction — all habits that don’t bring resolution.

What I’ve noticed recently is that many of our youth are choosing differently. They’re tired of the back-and-forth. They want peace. They want clarity. They want progress.

And for that, I applaud them.

To that young man — and others like him — thank you. Thank you for showing us what maturity looks like. Thank you for reminding us that growth isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s quiet. Sometimes, it simply looks like getting the job done without the noise.

Let’s give our youth the credit they deserve — and maybe even take a few lessons from them along the way.

Shutanda