Columnist says criticising younger generations is an old habit that keeps repeating

The writer of the 'Honoring My Mother' column in Mindanao Times argues that finding fault with younger generations is a conversation that never ends. According to the column, talk among parents about their children and their friends tends to widen into broader judgements about entire generations.

The columnist, who identifies as part of the boomer generation, attributes this habit partly to a 'Marites', or closet gossip, in everyone. The writer recalls a friend from the generation after the boomers who once described her peers as 'all dressed up with nowhere to go,' a reference to their search for identity. The columnist notes that most people feel lost during adolescence and questions whether today's young people are really so different.

The columnist argues that Generations X and Z are also 'dressed up' but have many places to go. As evidence, the writer points to social media, which shows them busy with a range of outdoor activities, and says they at least have a plan. Navigation tools such as Google Maps, the column adds, help them work out where to go and when.

The writer also acknowledges a contrary view held by some: that young people still hesitate to venture boldly into the unknown because of a 'who cares?' attitude.

The column concludes that the debate will never be settled and that trying to pin down what drives younger people is impractical. The writer predicts that within a few years, today's young people will be asking the same questions about the generation after them.