Where did the dreams go? Breaking the Mold: Exploring the Decline in Aspirations and Imagination Among African American Youth

MY STORY

Today as I reflected on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and his contributions to the civil rights movement, I find myself reflecting on the dreams and aspirations of others. As a child, I had dreams of becoming a fashion designer. I would spend hours sketching and writing poetry, fueling my creative spirit. However, as I grew older, those dreams took a backseat to the responsibilities and pressures of adulthood. Bills had to be paid, and the pursuit of my passions seemed like a luxury I couldn't afford.

Now, nearing 40, I find myself still searching for my purpose. Ambition has always remained within me, but fear and doubt have crept in, making me question whether my creative spirit is valid. Despite these challenges, my aspirations have always lingered in the background. I never succumbed to the allure of drugs or alcohol, nor did I find joy in mischief or rebellion. Instead, I somehow was encouraged to strive for something better, whether through education or a good job. The drive to achieve something greater than myself has always burned within me, even when I'm uncertain of what that something may be. Looking back at the obstacles and "start-overs" I've faced, I can say with certainty that I've tried. I've put in the effort and taken steps towards my goals, even if they didn't always lead to success. While I may have regrets about the past, I've come to realize that dwelling on yesterday won't change anything. Instead, I focus on making today different so that my tomorrows are better than my yesterdays.  

SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCE/ CULTURE AND MUSIC SHIFT  

Now that I've addressed my own personal journey, I want to dive into the changes I've observed within my own African American community, knowing that my observations and opinion may not apply to everyone within the community, but to those who resonate with my words. I couldn't help but notice the transformation that has taken place. I saw it immediately within the kids I helped raise within my family and among close friends. Gone are the days when they aspired to be the best athletes or pursue careers in the medical field. Instead, they seem content with idling away their time, engaging in mischievous behavior, and yearning to become social media "influencers" without a clear plan for their future. What's even more confusing is that this trend extends beyond just my own circle; it seems to permeate the friends they choose to surround themselves with. This shift in aspirations raises questions about the changing values and priorities of today's youth. Are they truly finding happiness and purpose in this new way of life? Or are they simply succumbing to the glamour of instant gratification and the illusion of success portrayed on social media platforms? It has replaced traditional forms of parenting in some aspects, providing a gateway to unlimited information and insights into the lives of others. Phone calls have been replaced by scrolling through social media pages for updates on family and friends. Unfortunately, what I've noticed, particularly is a concerning shift in values. Poverty is now glorified, with young people proudly displaying their struggles as if it were a badge of honor. Guns and substance abuse have become symbols of coolness, a far cry from the days when owning a weapon was seen as a last resort or a rural American tradition.

No, this isn’t a new phase. I get it. Even in my youth it was influence on various lifestyles, including the thug life mentality, gang violence, and the perception of women. Looking back, it is clear that the music of the past had a significant impact on shaping these cultural phenomena. However, what set this era apart from the present is the diversity within the music scene. Each rapper had their own unique style, sound, and message. Lauren Hill, MC Lyte, Eve, and Missy Elliott were distinguishably different from Foxy Brown and Trina. Similarly, Q-Tip, Nas, and Black Thought showcased a distinct artistry that contrasted Tupac, DMX, and Uncle Luke. The music industry celebrated individuality, and artists intentionally strived to sound different from one another. Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves in a different landscape. The homogeneity that once defined mainstream music is now prevalent. It has become increasingly challenging to differentiate between artists on the radio. The same formulaic sounds, beats, and lyrics seem to dominate the airwaves, leaving little room for innovation or creativity. While it is true that media outlets were more conservative in the past. What was once considered provocative or controversial is now embraced and normalized. While the music of the past provided a platform for self-expression and individuality, it also perpetuated harmful stereotypes and ideals. Today, the lack of diversity in mainstream music stifles creativity but allows for greater inclusivity and acceptance.

The influence of social media has given rise to a generation of teenagers fixated on fame and external validation. The desire for validation and recognition has become the driving force behind their actions, overshadowing the importance of personal growth and meaningful accomplishments. Girls strive for physical perfection with hair extensions, slim waists, and curvaceous figures, even resorting to potentially harmful methods like using Ozempic to lose weight. Young men flaunt guns, engage in a culture of violence, and degrade women to compensate for their own insecurities. It's important to note that these behaviors do not represent the entire younger African American generation, but their prevalence on social media platforms is alarming, especially to a point that I noticed a shift. Many young people within the description I just mention seem to lack hobbies, aspirations, and a genuine interest in exploring the world beyond their own surroundings. They are more concerned with maintaining a certain image and measuring themselves against their peers throughout the day. Communication skills have suffered because of our reliance on social media, leading to a lack of empathy and creative thinking. It begs the question, where have the dreams gone? Has the past two decades brought about such drastic changes that the aspirations of our youth have been overshadowed?

Undoubtedly, technology plays a significant role in these changes. While advancements have brought convenience, they have also caused inconveniences in areas that were once taught in schools or instilled within our communities. These transformations are particularly noticeable in impoverished areas, where generational traumas, survival mode, and lack of awareness contribute to the perpetuation of these trends.

CONCLUSION

With me reflecting on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. it should prompts us to examine our own dreams and aspirations. Show that it is important for us as parents, mentors, and society to emphasize the importance of balance and self-reflection. Let us encourage our youth to explore a variety of interests, discover their passions, and pursue meaningful goals beyond the realm of virtual popularity. By instilling in them a sense of purpose and the value of hard work, we can empower them to become active participants in shaping their own future. It is essential that we recognize the impact of social media and technology on our communities, particularly among the younger generation. Would help to foster a culture of empathy, creativity, and genuine communication, we can help reignite the dreams that have been overshadowed and guide our youth towards a brighter future. By guiding them towards purposeful engagement and encouraging them to seek fulfillment beyond the boundaries of social media, we can help this generation find their true calling and make a positive impact on the world around them. Let us embrace this evolving landscape and inspire the next generation to dream big, aspire for greatness, and create a future filled with purpose.

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I am NOT a medical expert, and all the articles and content shared here are solely based on my personal experiences, opinions, and research. It is essential that you consult your own physician or therapist and conduct your own research before following any advice mentioned on this platform.