Old folks have the predictable proclivity of speaking out about the current generation, or anyone younger. They feel that younger people have it easier and are softer than when they were young. They’ll start their rant with an opening volley like, “When I was young” or “Back in my day” and then go on to criticize a specific irritation.

I’m almost 70 years old and I find myself thinking the same way at times, but then I realize that young people, our kids and grandkids, need to live differently than the previous generation. They have a need to question, even rebel against our norm. Every generation does it and it’s a good thing. Rather than irritating, I find it amusing. They need something to signal their independence from the old social norm and create their own culture.

It starts with fashion and music, I think. Even though Grandpa may have tattoos, he can’t get into those skinny jeans, and a nose ring would irritate his asthmatic breathing. He’ll show some handyman plumber’s crack, but be shocked at the sight of a kid sagging his jeans. He may find some familiarity with the word nigga’, yet finds it repulsive when used with a pounding bass line in rap and hip-hop music.

Teenagers are different today than in your day, but they face the same need to belong, to be accepted, and to be hip. They look different than us, but so similar to each other.

Let’s not forget how we push kids to grow up faster through product marketing, movies and UTube. There’s no longer a time for adolescence. Fifty percent of marriages end in divorce and even stable relationships demand both parents to be employed. Youngsters become latch key kids and return from school to an empty house where they cling to their wire monkey in the form of video games or a cell phone until Mom gets home.

So lighten up Grandpa. They’re just doing what they’re supposed to. Take a second when that cantankerous thought crosses your mind. How are these youngsters hurting you other than causing you to yearn for the social independence you once had?