While there were some absolutely questionable fashion choices, the 1990s was a time like no other and had so much to offer. For those of us that grew up during that decade, we had the best of it all. For instance, we had a childhood where we got to be kids, an adolescence where we kept our privacy and a young adulthood where we enjoyed the benefits of technology emerging front-and-center.
In our current fast-paced digital world, it’s easy to forget those simpler times. But, it’s imperative to regularly reflect on the 90s as it was filled with so many invaluable life lessons. Decades later, these lessons carry through on their meaning and importance.
Lesson 1: How To Be Patient
“Patience is a virtue.” ~ William Langland
When Langland said those words in the 1300s, he had no clue that once technology blossomed, patience basically disappeared. Unlike today’s instant gratification culture, in the 90s, we had to wait…a lot. There was no “skip” button or instant wireless internet connection. Don’t even get me started on how long it took to boot up those computers! But, even though it felt like forever during those seemingly long moments, we all patiently waited.
Lesson 2: How To Research
“Research is creating new knowledge.” ~ Neil Armstrong
Alright, so technically Google was founded in 1998, but it was not the search powerhouse it is today or even heard of until well into the 2000s. In the 90s, if you wanted to do research for a paper, project or work, you had to utilize books and libraries. You even had to use card catalogs to find the books in the libraries. We knew how to truly research and create new knowledge without saying “Hey Google” or asking Siri or Alexa and having an immediate response.
Lesson 3: How To Find Our Way
“Maps encourage boldness. They’re like cryptic love letters. They make anything seem possible.” ~ Mark Jenkins
There was no Google Maps or GPS in the 90s. We had to read and decipher actual maps. The skill of reading a map is basically unheard of now. Yet, it’s an extremely vital skill to have. Sure, it is a way to find out where you are and where you are going, but it is so much more than that. Seeing an actual, physical map awakens the wanderlust quality in people and reminds them of all the possibilities in the world.
Lesson 4: How To Use Our Imaginations
“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” ~ Albert Einstein
During the 90s, well into middle school, we all relied on our imaginations for entertainment. From coming up with games for road trips to entertaining ourselves while playing outdoors, we had so much fun simply using our imaginations. As a parent now, it makes me sad to see more and more kids constantly relying on technology for entertainment. Don’t get me wrong – I’m all for my toddler watching Mrs. Rachel when I need to get things done! But, I also want her to just play as much as possible without technology and use her imagination throughout her childhood. It’s such a valuable mental asset that even helps build problem solving skills.
