Chapter 1: The Challenge of Growing Up Today

Dear J,

Navigating your world is no easy feat. I've had the privilege of watching you grow, and it's hard to comprehend the challenges you face. You entered this life without a choice, equipped with little guidance on how to thrive in it.

When you were born, the digital landscape was just emerging. It wasn’t just the invention of the internet; it was an explosion of content directed your way at breakneck speed.

Reflecting on my childhood, I realize how fortunate I was. Back then, purchasing a children's VHS tape was a luxury. In Vietnam, we had no cartoons to speak of! Instead, we had adults reenacting ancient stories with no special effects—it resembled something recorded on an old Nokia phone. You’d probably find it laughable if you saw it today.

But that simplicity allowed me to spend my days outdoors. My friends and I played with anything we could find—rocks, empty cigarette packs, rubber bands. When it rained, we would scream with joy, racing inside to gather our things before darting back outside to dance and splash in puddles. Some of the more adventurous ones would even use soap to take an impromptu shower beneath the downpour.

Studies indicate that children struggle to form memories while staring at screens.

What must it be like to grow up without vivid memories of childhood? It’s a thought that frightens me.

You’ve grown up in a world saturated with television. We believed that if you weren’t watching something, you were being unruly. We thought as long as the content wasn’t violent, it was acceptable.

If only I had understood the consequences better. I wish I had known that excessive screen time would shorten your attention span and stifle your creativity. I regret that it could diminish your social skills and relationships.

I would have engaged with you more.

The past 15 years have brought about immense change. In the past, we had to look back over centuries to witness significant evolution. Now, mere years feel like a montage flashing before our eyes.

Your parents find it challenging to keep pace. They weren't prepared for a world that would become globally interconnected and give rise to artificial intelligence.

I see the growing divide between you and your parents, and I recognize how disorienting it must be for you. It can be infuriating when they seem unable to grasp your struggles. Remember, they, too, are navigating a confusing landscape.

It’s astonishing how our world operates. We have an abundance of food, yet much of it can harm us. Entertainment is global, yet it often leaves us feeling numb. Education may appear 'free', but the resulting debt can be crippling.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Future

But J, pay close attention to what I’m about to share.

You live in an extraordinary time—one that holds unparalleled opportunities. It may feel like you’re caught in a relentless current, struggling to stay afloat.

However, learning to navigate those turbulent waters can propel you forward faster than you might think. Just because you’re thrown into chaos doesn’t mean you have to succumb to it.

The turmoil in the world is indicative of significant transformations. The reality you perceive, the one your parents envision for you, is fading away.

This old world is failing to adapt, drowning in its inability to embrace change. That’s why it often feels overwhelming as you attempt to find your way.

Yet, from this turmoil emerges a new world.

A world where people prioritize passion over profits. A world that values fresh, sustainable food instead of convenience. A world where community and genuine connections take precedence over technology that often divides us.

This new world is yours for the taking.

To thrive in it, you need to trust yourself.

I know it sounds cliché, but what does it truly mean?

It starts with forgiveness. Whatever grudges you hold—be it against your parents, society, or even yourself—let it go.

Understanding the roots of your anger is crucial. You are shaped by your upbringing and environment. If you can’t forgive, you won’t be able to fully accept who you are.

Holding onto anger blinds you. It can lead you down a dark path with no return.

Transform that anger into understanding to gain clarity. From clarity arises compassion.

When you can see yourself clearly, the world around you comes into focus as well.

Let this newfound perspective fuel your enthusiasm for life. Trust your instincts and follow what excites you.

Your passions are there for a reason; chase them wholeheartedly.

Don’t fixate on the outcome. It’s impossible to foresee what you can achieve when driven by genuine passion. Allow life to unfold and surprise you.

You possess an innate ability to navigate what lies ahead. Your experiences online have equipped you to seek valuable information effortlessly. You’ve learned skills outside traditional education.

You’ve become aware of the damage caused by the old world to our environment and have opened your mind to endless possibilities. What seems impossible to some is already being accomplished by others across the globe.

A new world is being born, and it’s yours to mold. Do so with excitement. Shape it with what invigorates you.

We need your guidance.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Did you find it insightful?

Join my (free) newsletter to receive more articles like this delivered to your inbox.

This video titled "An Open Letter To Gen Z" delves into the unique challenges faced by the younger generation, providing insights and encouragement to navigate today’s complexities.

In the video "Open Letter to Gen-Z | Roast," the creator humorously addresses generational differences while offering valuable life lessons for the youth.