As I have watched two of my five sons reach adulthood, I have been asking myself, did my generation do enough to leave them a country where they can enjoy the fruits of liberty? Have we, or can we, leave them a country that will be Independent with people who are independent? Did we set good examples of patriotism and citizenship? Did we live by those examples?
I must admit that as I interact with younger adults of my son's age range 18-25, I find evidence that the ideals my generation may have lacked have taken root in the younger generations. For instance, take the subject of being earth friendly, or "green". My generation started those ideas within small groups who were passionate about it but, for the most part, did not follow or catch on to these teachings as early as we should have. Yet, with this younger generation, I find that they not only learn it, but also follow it with a desire to live more efficiently and eco-friendly with the environment we have. I find this not only refreshing, but also inspiring that there are those who will be future leaders with a lot more common sense and understanding of what it will take to make life better for all people.
However, my generation has driven us many years into debt, and I realize that it may take the younger generations much longer than normal to accomplish what they feel is good for this country.
As I ask for the younger vote, know that I believe we need to stop the decimating policies that damage our environment and replace them with sensible and sustainable policies. I also believe we need to stop the out-of-control spending of tax money as if it were nothing. Our younger generations do not need a large debt that will hinder their advances in living, science, and work. They need a solid foundation to start.
I have faith that the next generation will do much better than us. I hope that I can be your Congressman, so that I can stand for policies that will give the youth a better starting line to begin their assumption of leadership roles.
Young people, I need your vote and assistance to be elected as your Congressman. I plan to have in place a Young Leaders Committee made up of young people along with Citizens of different backgrounds and from each County and of various backgrounds to help me represent the generations of tomorrow. Today we can shape the future- one that will be good for all of us. ......Jerry Coon for Congress.