Could the Age of Aquarius still dawn?
So what about 40 years later? Hmmm, maybe now that those Boomers are middle-aged, they’re longing to recapture their no-rules, no-responsibility youths. Will that translate into the sort of world changing activities the original Woodstock promised?
I’m thinking maybe yes. The economic debacle of the past 10 months has forced so many of us to rethink the way we live, to reconsider the value of stuff, from BMWs and designer duds to Caribbean vacations and $100 bottles of wine, and to reconnect with the ideals we tried and tossed when we were young.
A second chance to make good
More and more of the 40-plusers I meet these days are talking about cutting down, cutting back and cutting out. They’re volunteering at women’s shelters, food banks and seniors programs. They’re mentoring new Canadians, tutoring at-risk kids and signing up as Big Brothers and Big Sisters. They’re giving back to their communities in more engaging ways than writing a cheque – although, heaven knows, money always helps make a difference. And they believe they are richer people for the experience.
I guess the legacy of Woodstock should have been, “I am my brother's and sister's keeper.” It wasn’t. It was greed and consumption and every person for him or herself. Which got us into the current mess – economic chaos, global warming, genocide, famine.
I could go on – but you get my point. The good news is, we have a second chance to make good on the promise of our youth. To teach our kids and grandkids to hold out a hand to those who need help by showing them how we do it. And to create not just a New America or a New Canada but a New World where compassion rules and personal responsibility counts.
As Heather Small asks in her song Proud: What have you done today to make you feel proud?
We need a change – so let’s get busy.
If peace is your concern, check out Diane Selkirk's web-exclusive look at one peace activist; get inspired by Heidi Bennet and Jill Stainforth who have worked to sponsor a fresh start for a family in need.
This article is a part of our Summer of Love! Share how you've put love in the world today.
