Generation Chasm

Listening to my sons and their friends discuss electronics reminds me that I’m on one side of a chasm, they’re on the other. I’m not talking about new-age knowledge, although we’re on opposite sides of that chasm too :) I’m talking about valuing money.

Computers, software, cell phones, handheld music/game devices, etc., are all very expensive in the eyes of my generation. Not so with my children’s generation—this stuff is an expected part of their world. I’m not saying that negatively—it is cool stuff…I love my computer and cell phone. The difference? I know I can’t afford it all and don’t feel the need to.

My children are so used to hearing $100+ price tags that it seems normal to them. We make them scrimp and save for the items they want, hoping to instill money value and delayed gratification, but sometimes I think we’re fighting a losing battle…

Recently, I heard two radio ads touting “inexpensive” $100 gifts—when did $100 become petty cash? A hundred here and a hundred there soon becomes thousands, and people are shocked by credit card bills and lack of savings.

Money facts are on my mind these days as J. prepares for college. Soon, credit card companies will send him tempting offers at high interest rates. We’ve discussed the danger of credit cards over and over, yet I remember how enticing they were when I was a “poor” twenty-something. J. has always been wise with his money, and being a computer genius :), he’ll never lack for work, but he’s still a product of his generation. He’s enthralled by electronics and wants the latest devices. Our TVs are his age…we’re such a disappointment…

I just keep reinforcing that there’s a huge difference between want and need—we need shelter, food, and clothing…the rest is frosting. Of course, frosting is what everyone wants. Frosting is fun, exciting, extraordinary...damn bakers anyway...