greatest

I just finished Tom Brokaw’s book, “The Greatest Generation”. It is a compilation of interviews he conducted with a cross section of people who lived and fought during WW2. While the people in the book came from all walks of life they shared some common characteristics many of which differ from today’s society. First off they all relied on their faith during the tough times of the depression and war. Many said this was the single thing that gave them hope during the darkest hours. Second they believed in family loyalty. Family was the back bone of their inner strength. Families lived together in the same area, children, parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts all helping each other. Third, they believed in being responsible for their own actions. When bad economic times hit the last thing on their minds was filing for bankruptcy. Neighbors and relatives came together to help. Fourth, they had a strong work ethic. Many lived on farms or came from farms where they knew the value of hard work. Finally they were patriotic. They believed in flag and country and the American way. Times were tough but they always felt that the future would be better.