The time to influence the world is right now

In the 1960s, a generation of people protested for change with the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other world heroes through marches, rallies and cries for freedom.

They were true pioneers.

The next generation rose up with many individuals focused on becoming leaders in their communities. They, too, fought at home and abroad for causes they believed in.

My generation uses Facebook, Twitter and other networking sites. Because who has time for a cause when a new Lil’ Wayne song blasts out the airwaves? Or when there is an urgent message on MySpace that must be responded to?
I am a 21-year-old with a Facebook and Twitter account. I visit these sites several times throughout the day.
Am I, along with millions of internet users and music crazed fans, wrong to enjoy these modes of communication and entertainment? Of course not. However, we need to re-examine our culture, our direction, and our priorities.

I chose Lil’ Wayne as a model to represent the various genres of singers who often lace their songs with the dominant messages of sex, drugs and violence.
I understand that they are entertainers, but what message is imparted to the millions of fans who digest their music subconsciously? Exactly how is our generation defined? By our pop culture? Our fashion sense? Our MTV? Or by our values and strengths that produces a positive change in others?

Yes, past generations also listened to the music of their day, and enjoyed their youth. Yet their messages and ideas also shook the conscious of our country and world.

As young adults, we are in the prime of our lives, and freedom and independence are vital.
However, when will more important matters outweigh the latest concert, freshest clothes and trends?

I know that the 21st century has its share of young people on their way to becoming world-changers. I know countless young pioneers who lead causes, feed dying children and make a positive impact on society as this is being typed.
Yet, for the countless others who are too busy looking for the next big fad, when their children ask, “How did you change the world?”

What is their answer going to be? What is yours?