Millennials Might …

Many people, especially young adults, eschew politics because they feel that they can’t change anything. If you fit this description, consider the following.

On May 25, 1961, President John F. Kennedy called for an ambitious space exploration program to put astronauts on the moon. The goal was accomplished eight years later on July 20, 1969. Gene Kranz, former Director of NASA Mission Operations during the Gemini and Apollo programs that led to the moon landings, recalled that:

My controllers at the time of the first lunar landing — our average age was 26. I was 35. I was the old man in this room essentially.

Do the math. Gene Kranz was a young professional of 27 and his control room staff were about 18 when they heard President Kennedy’s challenge. Within a decade, they participated in mankind’s greatest accomplishment in history. Though most remain anonymous, they made a difference.

You can make a difference too. Pay attention to what the government, corporations, and other powerful organizations are doing. Speak up when they lie, infringe on our rights, or cause harm to our society or environment. Protest their actions to educate others. You can still enjoy your life — socialize with friends, play sports and games, pursue a career, raise a family — but also spend some time contributing to society. Learn about the candidates, and be sure to vote. Make a difference.