In 2019, everything seemed happier. We were prosperous (on the whole and certainly more than compared to now) and because of that the economy grew. Putting the heating on when it was cold or going out for a meal once in a while was something that was totally normal for the majority. Of course, that isn’t to say there was no poverty and everything was perfect in 2019 - far from it- but it was significantly better than what we have now. There seemed to be far more joy in life, people seemed happier and less worried.
There has since then been two very traumatic crisis - the pandemic and the cost of living. I honestly dread to think the effect this will have on “Gen Z” teens as well as young kids with a worldwide disease meaning they can’t have natural childhood experiences and then (for many) their family struggling to afford even basic essentials.
I don’t know if this is everyone’s experience but I can certainly say that within my own group of friends it’s so depressing. Half of them never want to do anything, usually because of money or after covid they just can’t be bothered. Many of my friends are also struggling with their mental health.
It honestly feels like 2019 was the end of some kind of “golden age” and I honestly don’t see a way of getting back there any time soon. I suspect it will take another generation to come through before the impacts of this all stop having such a strain on the world.
Aibu to ask when, if ever, things will stop being so crap?