On his recent visit to the UK President Obama has hosted a town hall meeting for young people where he appealed them to ‘reject pessimism and cynicism,’ while pursuing a more optimistic outlook which will aid in solving problems in the future.
The speech was a baton of sorts passing his legacy onto the future generation to resolve issues that may arise in later years. This message resonates with young people because they are the future, leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and their decisions will shape the world. They will determine whether the future will be a place of compromise between those that hold different opinions or if they will hold to beliefs without any thought of resolving difficult problems.
As with all people young people will hold different opinions, however dismissing the opposite side or unwillingness to compromise will lead to greater problems within the future. This is demonstrated by the political system today, undoubtedly opposition parties will hold opposing views; however, to simply state that the other side is wrong and misunderstand the argument is no better. Parties and people may disagree and still can meet at some central ground to come to a resolution. The EU debate is one such example, supports and opponents of Britain remaining in the EU can debate with courtesy and use educated arguments. However the ‘mudslinging’ that is occurring with either side stating the opposing campaign is fearmongering and simply lying, does not further the debate or aid in a compromise when the decision by the electorate is made.
Young people can forge a new path in the future, one that is filled with optimism and understanding. Although others may disagree with your opinion, the other side along with yourself can agree on some aspects and form a decision which will address all issues. This will be difficult as every person believe their cause and beliefs are accurate and correct, but to handle difficult problems all opinions within a debate must be taken into account.
Moreover, to hold the belief that nothing will ever change, or the situation cannot be improved halts the change that young people can bring.
President Obama stated that change can take a long time noting the campaign to end slavery began in 17th century, however, it was only until several centuries later that African-American citizens received equal rights.
A person only needs a solution and a vision to create a more prosperous, peaceful world but change will take more than a day. It is important that young people continue to build bridges of conciliation for change to continue.
