Very true old timer. We as a society have done a huge disservice to the younger generation as parents/mentors. To many bailouts and not letting kids learn hard lessons. The hard lessons are the ones you remember the rest of your life and learn from.
Most kids (including mine) are babied. It's never the kids fault but rather everybody else. Kid not starting in basketball, baseball, football "that coach is an idiot". Lose your homework, don't study for a test and fail "those teachers at that school are too demanding".
Unfortunately it's being reflected in our society today. People who have no skills, initiative or work ethic. They can't pay bills but have 10 tattoo's, the best cell phone, eat out 4-5 times a week and wear brand name clothes.
I love the United States but fear for our country and it's future. I'm glad I grew up when I did when expectations were higher. I worry about my kids future and what the U.S. will be like in another 15-20 years.