Remember that iconic moment in Back to the Future when Marty McFly describes 1985 to Doc, who incredulously asks, “The actor?!” Sometimes, I feel like I could have that same reaction about 2015 when I think back to the ‘80s.
Can you believe that over forty women have come forward accusing a beloved comedian, Charlie Spencer, of sexual assault? Meanwhile, pop star Billy Joel hasn’t topped the charts in ages but still manages to fill stadiums. And yes, the ever-amusing actor Bill Murray continues to make us laugh.
Cartoons are available 24/7 now, while Saturday mornings have transformed into a whirlwind of sports practices and appointments—a far cry from those lazy days of cartoon-watching. Remember the thrill of three-way calling? Now, with smartphones like the iPhone, it’s a whole new world of communication.
We have our first black president, and influential figures like Oprah Winfrey have changed the game for women in leadership, yet racial tensions persist. Bruce Springsteen remains the boss of rock, and Bruce Willis has seen ups and downs in his relationship with actress Demi Moore. Oh, and Bruce Jenner has transitioned to become Caitlyn.
Fashion is a funny thing; shoulder pads and perms are not making a comeback, but those leg warmers and Jordache jeans? Your kids might just wear them for ‘80s Day at school. And Harrison Ford, surviving plane crashes like a superhero, must be some sort of robot.
Farm Aid is still crucial, while Live Aid’s legacy remains vital too. The debate about where to direct our charitable donations—domestically or internationally—continues without resolution. Reading food labels today could require a PhD in chemistry!
O.J. Simpson was famously acquitted for the murder of his ex-wife, yet his lawyer’s family is now among the wealthiest in Hollywood. Surprisingly, Caitlyn Jenner is both a father and stepfather to those kids. And despite everything, O.J. found himself in prison.
We are living longer, but health issues seem to be on the rise. While air-cleaning appliances are common, many people still reach for plastic water bottles, and organic produce often costs a pretty penny. Michael Jackson’s untimely death, Michael Jordan’s lengthy career, and Michael Hutchence’s struggles with addiction remind us of life’s fragility.
MTV still exists, though it has drifted away from music videos to shows that are often hard to decipher for those over 30. News feels more like entertainment, and despite the abundance of information, misinformation is rampant. Women have made strides in sports, politics, and business but are still often judged on appearance.
Interestingly, Luke, the homeless character from Growing Pains, would go on to become a major film star. Those notes we used to pass in class, filled with secrets, can now be shared online—often with a wider audience than intended, making them virtually indestructible.
Remember the serious message of “this is your brain on drugs”? Today’s kids are prescribed medications more than ever. Yet, you might find it easier to buy a gun than to get a prescription for Prozac. Children are strapped into car seats while carrying firearms to school.
Although the Cold War is behind us, conflicts persist, with American lives being lost in places like Libya. The arms race continues, but now it’s citizens against citizens. In this climate, being offended is almost a competitive sport with no clear winner.
As we still seek the ultimate diet pill, a cure for cancer, and alternatives to oil, we’ve also mastered the art of cosmetic enhancements. So, little girl from the ‘80s, what’s the takeaway? Life doesn’t always move forward in a linear fashion. Progress is complex, and it’s essential to simplify where we can. Be kind, open-minded, and strive for love over judgment. Aim for peace rather than comparison.
In the spirit of The Breakfast Club, remember to see people in their entirety, not just through the narrow lens of stereotypes. Everyone is part of a vast puzzle, and it’s our job to contribute to putting it together, not tearing it apart. For more insights on navigating life and parenting, check out this post on Cervical Insemination.
Summary
This reflective piece examines the complexities of life in 2015, touching on cultural shifts, social issues, and our evolving understanding of progress. It encourages kindness and connection while acknowledging the challenges we face.
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