OPINION:
I was born in 1950 and grew up in arguably the most economically prosperous time that any generation had enjoyed. Many of our parents had been raised during the Great Depression and had a visceral understanding of what it was like to experience living with a bare minimum of resources.
We were told about those lean years in America, but we never had to endure firsthand the deprivation to which our parents were subjected. The 1960s counterculture was brought on to some degree by this unbridled prosperity.
We were comfortable. Our basic needs were met with seemingly little effort. We had the time and luxury of complaining.
We began protesting injustice, from civil rights to the war in Vietnam. We were exhilarated by civil disobedience and the camaraderie that came with it. I believe much good came from our efforts, despite the sex, drugs and debauchery.
Now we have folks out there who are jumping on the bandwagon with little idea of what they’re protesting (“White House outlines help for colleges grappling with antisemitic chants, protests,” web, Oct. 30). They’re just following the crowd.
As in the 1960s, outrage can be exhilarating, but I see a conspicuous difference here. Our message was mostly peace and love. When I look in the eyes of the pro-Palestinian mob, all I see is hate.
SCOTT THOMPSON
Bloomington, Indiana
