At a recent appointment, my hairstylist shared her feelings about high school, expressing no desire to relive those years. It’s unfortunate, really, because for me—and perhaps for the Class of ’82—those were some of the most memorable times. Sure, we faced our share of typical teenage issues: awkward moments, crushes that went unreciprocated, and the pressure of homework and standardized tests like the SAT. But as I reminisce, I find myself smiling at the lessons learned during those vibrant years. The passage of time has conveniently erased most of the embarrassing memories, leaving behind the valuable insights and quirky styles we embraced. Without today’s technology, we had to navigate challenges that modern teens could hardly fathom.
1. We Learned to Wait for What We Wanted.
Saturday mornings were sacred for us, as we eagerly anticipated cartoons. No binge-watching was possible—if you missed an episode of Scooby-Doo, you had to wait a whole week for its return. Armed with bowls of sugary cereals and a glass of orange juice, we indulged in hours of animated escapism, embracing the art of anticipation.
2. We Learned the Importance of Inclusion and Acceptance.
I remember a classmate named Tim who had a disability. He was beloved by all—not out of pity, but because he was genuinely warm and engaging. Tim’s charm and humor drew everyone in, and we didn’t need structured programs to teach us kindness and acceptance; it came naturally.
3. We Learned Resilience and Resourcefulness.
With only a handful of TV channels to choose from, our options were limited. Gone were the days of endless choices; we had to find joy in the simple things. We munched on Slim Jims and Pringles, washing them down with Tab, and navigated a world that didn’t cater to every whim. Instead, we created our own fun, like turning a piece of paper into a makeshift football during study hall—crafting our own entertainment instead of relying on technology.
4. We Learned Communication Skills the Old-Fashioned Way.
Conversations happened on corded phones, and we spent hours chatting, often nervously greeting parents when they answered. We didn’t just shoot a text; instead, we rang doorbells or passed handwritten notes in class, relishing the thrill of potential discovery. There was something exhilarating about the risk of getting caught that texting just can’t replicate.
5. We Learned to Appreciate True Entertainment.
Growing up in the ’70s and ’80s meant being surrounded by iconic entertainment. From John Hughes’ classic films like Sixteen Candles and Pretty in Pink to unforgettable sitcoms like Cheers and Family Ties, we were spoiled with cinematic treasures. Our proms were filled with the sounds of legendary artists like Queen and Michael Jackson, while MTV showcased real music videos that had us glued to the screen.
6. We Learned That Life is About More Than Just Choices.
The limited options we had taught us to be grateful and resourceful. Whether it was food choices or entertainment, we learned to navigate with creativity and appreciation. Today’s teens may have countless options at their fingertips, but we learned to find joy in simplicity.
In summary, growing up in the ’70s and ’80s provided invaluable lessons about patience, acceptance, creativity, and the importance of genuine connection. These experiences shaped us and created a unique bond among those of us who navigated those vibrant decades. For those interested in exploring topics like home insemination, check out this excellent resource on treating infertility from the ACOG. If you’re looking for tools to assist in your journey, consider the at-home insemination kit, which can be found here.
Keyphrase: Lessons from the ’70s and ’80s
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