LENOIR, N.C. – Every generation must do it: Say to our children and grandchildren – It’s your world now.

Sarah and I are nearing our 46^th anniversary in April, followed by my 70^th birthday just 10 days later. When we met, we had both been in the workforce for about eight years. Add it all up, and between us we have devoted more than 100 years to labor so that we could support ourselves and raise our children.

We have both worked in the service sectors. Sarah worked in hospitals and a doctor’s office; I also worked in a couple of hospitals and was a paramedic, teacher and journalist. We’ve done our best to leave this earth better than we found it. Sure, Sarah and I think we did OK, but our time was different. Calmer.

We lend an ear – and a bit of advice – if asked. But it’s time to say to our children and their many lovely, civic-minded contemporaries that are now leaders in our community, “It’s your world now.”

It is better for many reasons, not the least of which is that our children understand – far better than we do – the world in which they are raising their children. They are, undeniably, the subject matter experts when it comes to raising children today in a generally horrid time resulting from the Digital Revolution and political authoritarianism. Our grandchildren do not need their Grandma and Grandpa to be continually annoyed by bots and corporations that have lost all sense of human connection. They just need unconditional love, and every now and then, a few bucks.

From where I sit, I see that we are in good hands. For that, I am very thankful. Now, it’s time to put on the boots and explore Appalachia’s beauty while we can.

© Michael M. Barrick, 2026