While often reduced to nostalgic stereotypes like drinking from the hose, the latchkey lifestyle, and endless synthwave-vaporwave memes,#GenX actually spans a much broader and more complex set of experiences.

We shaped early internet culture, navigated multiple economic recessions, and redefined what the “work-life balance” really should be. We have a vast wealth of hard-earned life lessons in life, love, business, and faith.

That base of knowledge is at great risk of disappearing, not because Generation X is reluctant to share. On the contrary, we would buy the first of many rounds if the younger generations would listen and respect what we have to say. Unfortunately, most interactions with them end in dismissive rhetoric and, at times, blatant insults and disrespect.

Generation X was raised with manners. We listened closely to our elders and took their words to heart, considering them carefully. We spoke when spoken to and remained silent when we had nothing of value to contribute to the conversation, not because of fear of breaking the rules.

We understood the rules and why they existed. We would remain silent because that is what was required when learning lessons from generations of immeasurable value. It is also what maturity and respect look like. A lesson that I wish many would take the time to learn.