At a recent visit to the salon, my stylist expressed her disinterest in reliving her high school days. It’s a pity because, for my graduating class of ’82, high school was a blast. Sure, we faced typical teenage struggles—crushes, acne, and the pressure of exams, but looking back, I mostly remember the joyful moments. Time has softened the memories of embarrassing mishaps and heartbreaks, allowing me to cherish the valuable lessons I learned during those formative years. Without today’s advanced technology, we ’70s and ’80s kids tackled challenges that modern teens can’t even fathom.
1. We Mastered Delayed Gratification
Saturday morning cartoons were a cherished highlight of our week—we had to wait all week for them! There was no binge-watching; we relied on a single airing of shows like Scooby-Doo or Tom and Jerry. After enduring the wait, we would indulge in a bowl of sugary cereal and sip on orange juice made from frozen concentrate, blissfully zoning out for hours.
2. We Learned the Importance of Inclusivity
In school, we had classmates like Jamie, who faced challenges due to a disability. Jamie was loved by all—not out of pity, but because of his infectious personality. He was a source of laughter and warmth, and we didn’t need any workshops on diversity to understand the value of kindness and acceptance.
3. We Embraced Limitations
Our entertainment choices were limited; three major networks and PBS offered far fewer options than today’s hundreds of channels. We had just plain and peanut M&Ms, and video games like Pong were a far cry from today’s high-tech experiences. Our meals were simple, categorized only as “food” without the modern labels of organic or gluten-free. We made do with snacks like Slim Jims and Pringles, and somehow, we thrived.
4. We Cultivated Resourcefulness
Remember study hall? While it was meant for studying, we often turned it into a creative workshop. We crafted paper footballs and origami, predicting our future relationships with just a few folds. We learned to make the best of our circumstances, much like MacGyver, opting for fun over studying.
5. We Developed Communication Skills
Real conversations took place on corded phones, where we often chatted for hours. Approaching a friend’s house to ring the doorbell was a thrilling experience. The excitement of passing handwritten notes was both risky and exhilarating, offering a sense of connection that texting cannot replicate.
6. We Grew Up Amidst Timeless Entertainment
From iconic films to unforgettable music, our entertainment shaped our youth. John Hughes’ films like “Sixteen Candles” and “The Breakfast Club” defined our high school experience, while ’80s sitcoms like “Cheers” and music from legends like Michael Jackson filled our proms with unforgettable moments. We were fortunate to experience the golden age of entertainment, which continues to resonate today.
In summary, the lessons learned in the ’70s and ’80s extend far beyond the classroom. From embracing limitations to fostering inclusivity and developing communication skills, these experiences have shaped resilient individuals. For more insights into parenting and family dynamics, check out resources such as this excellent guide on pregnancy or delve into child motivation strategies.