Cody Meracle :
Maybe I’m missing something, but I’m conflicted.
I was born in 1992. I look back at the generation that came after World War II and see affordable homes, growing industries, major infrastructure projects, strong manufacturing jobs, and a level of opportunity that helped create the American middle class.
When people talk about how expensive World War II was, they often leave out what came after. The country invested in things that seemed to create long-term growth and prosperity.
Yet my generation has watched trillions of dollars spent over the last few decades, and many of us still struggle to afford a home, save for retirement, or get ahead financially.
What makes it harder to understand is seeing homes that were purchased decades ago on a single income, at prices that seem unimaginable today, now being sold for massive profits. Many people were able to buy homes, raise families, and live comfortably on wages that don’t seem to go nearly as far anymore.
I’m not blaming everyone who benefited from that era. If I were in their shoes, I’d probably want to maximize the value of my home too. But it’s hard not to wonder why so many people in my generation are working just as hard and still feel locked out of the same opportunities.
I’m not saying the past was perfect or that every dollar spent today is wasted. I just find myself asking: if we’re spending so much money, why does it feel like ordinary people have less to show for it?
That’s a question I genuinely wrestle with.
2026-06-14 10:35:30