To Whom It May Concern
I’m a millennial firefighter and I’m offended.
I’m offended that we’ll never get the same experience you got, and that is held against us as if it is our choice.
I’m offended that, in lieu of that experience, we seek alternative means of education... but we are chastised for our passion.
I’m offended that we are personally investing our future in the job, but “it’ll never be like it used to be” so instead we are surrounded by bitterness and negativity.
I’m offended that we’re always reminded of how ‘soft’ our generation is, but it’s not our generation that insists it is too late, too cold, too hot, or too wet outside to train.
I’m offended that we have access to information sharing beyond the imagination of our forefathers, but when we use it as a resource, we are told that we never needed it and don’t need it now.
I’m offended that my brothers and sisters are being told to shut up and listen but aren’t being taught.
I’m offended that when we ask “why” we are told that is just how we do it. That isn’t an answer that is a cop-out.
I’m offended that we’re told we’ll never know what you know. Teach us.
I’m offended that we research and purchase our own tools to contribute to the team’s success but because you’ve never heard of them, they are useless and we are ridiculous.
I’m offended that you complain about how rough you had it but then subject others to the very same.
And lastly...
I’m offended that we want so badly to have mentors to look up to, to learn from, to guide and encourage our growth, and to teach us the tough lessons; however the ones who claim to be entitled to that responsibility don’t always take it seriously.
I’m a millennial firefighter and I’m not offended... I’m just trying to become a good firefighter.
