During a recent haircut, my stylist mentioned how she wouldn’t want to relive her high school days. That’s unfortunate, because for those of us in the Class of ’82, high school was quite the adventure. Sure, we faced the usual struggles of adolescence—awkward crushes, braces, homework, and the infamous SATs—but the memories I cherish overshadow the teenage drama. The passage of time has dulled the sting of those embarrassing moments, and instead, I think of the valuable lessons learned in our unique era, without the technology that today’s teens take for granted.
1. Delayed Gratification was a Must.
Saturday morning cartoons were a real treat, only available after a week of waiting. No binge-watching for us! We indulged in classic shows like “Tom and Jerry” and “Scooby-Doo” once a week, often accompanied by a bowl of sugary cereal and a glass of orange juice. This taught us the joy of anticipation rather than instant access.
2. Embracing Differences and Inclusion.
I remember a classmate named Jake, who had a disability. He was beloved by all—students, teachers, and staff alike. What made Jake special wasn’t his disability, but his vibrant personality and humor. We didn’t need modern workshops on diversity; we simply accepted and included one another without hesitation.
3. Living with Limits.
With only three major TV networks and PBS, our viewing options were limited. We didn’t have a multitude of snack options, just plain and peanut M&Ms. Our video games were basic, but we adapted and made the most of what we had. We learned to appreciate the simple things and enjoyed snacks like Slim Jims and Pringles without worrying about dietary labels.
4. Resourcefulness was Key.
Remember study halls? Instead of studying, we crafted paper footballs for friendly competitions or folded gum wrappers into long chains. We became little innovators, creating entertainment out of what was available. If we weren’t using our creativity, we were simply studying—which was far less fun!
5. Good Manners and Communication Skills.
We spent hours on corded phones, nervously chatting with friends and their parents. A knock on the door was the way we visited friends, not a quick text from the car. We passed handwritten notes to each other, relishing the thrill of getting caught or not. Those moments taught us social skills that texting simply can’t replicate.
6. Epic Entertainment Defined Our Lives.
From iconic movies like “Sixteen Candles” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” to unforgettable music from artists like Michael Jackson and Queen, the ’70s and ’80s gave us a wealth of entertainment. We were grateful for the creativity of that era, with MTV showcasing original music videos that captured the spirit of our youth.
Reflecting on these lessons, we recognize that growing up during this time was rich with experiences that shaped who we are today. For those interested in pregnancy and home insemination, there are excellent resources available, including Healthline for insights into IUI and Make A Mom for comprehensive home insemination kits. For more information about privacy, you can check out our post on privacy policy.
Summary: Growing up in the ’70s and ’80s instilled valuable life lessons in teenagers, from the importance of delayed gratification and resourcefulness to the development of good manners and communication skills. Our experiences were shaped by the entertainment of the era, leaving lasting memories that resonate today.