Most of us created our first facebook account 10 to 15 years back. At that time the thought of our parents being on facebook was unimaginable, but soon our parents found a way to facebook and they seemed to be enjoying it more than us. As a result, many of us sought refuge from our parents on Facebook by migrating to Instagram. we found a haven where we could selectively shape our social circles, share our moments freely, and enjoy a break from the increasingly crowded and complicated world of Facebook.
This move, however, subtly widened the gap between us and our parents. They were no longer just a room away but rather a whole digital universe apart. They missed out on the snapshots of our daily lives—the quirky cafes we stumbled upon, the late-night adventures with friends, the quiet moments we chose to share with the world. These bits of our lives remained unseen by them, confined to the corners of Instagram, accessible only if we chose to share beyond the digital barriers.
During our teens and early 20s, it’s natural to crave this kind of independence, to want a space that feels entirely our own. Yet, as we mature into our late 20s and beyond, many of us find ourselves pulling down these barriers, inviting our parents back into more aspects of our lives, perhaps because the storms of youth have passed or perhaps because we and our parents have both grown in understanding.
When I look back at my own journey, I see that during the years of 18 to 25. I was disconnected with my parents. It's not like we did not speak, we spoke very frequently, My mother even knew about my boyfriend. But the communication barely scratched the surface. I feel that I really didn't know what they were going through, well, they listened to me always but the communication was so much centred around me, my struggles, career and so on that I guess I forgot to listen to them and even though I was sharing but there were parts of my life that I couldn't share with them due to whatever reasons. Looking back, I wish they had been more involved in my journey, and I in theirs. I wish they had seen all the subtle ways I changed, IÂ wish they had witnessed my growth and offered insights or corrections when needed,and I wish I had been there to support their changes too.
Part of the issue may be attributed to the generational gap. The rapid pace of the modern world only widens this gap, making genuine connections more challenging but also more crucial. The West offers a stark view of this future, where relationships can sometimes feel as formal as scheduling an appointment.
I believe it's crucial to acknowledge this gap and actively work to bridge it. I support the concept of joint families; they teach and nurture us, fostering a deeper humanity. Yes, it requires effort from every family member, but the rewards—creating a truly comfortable space for both parents and children—are immeasurable. We should all strive to forge such environments where genuine comfort with family is the norm.