Over Troubled Waters

When you're down and out
When you're on the street
When evening falls so hard

Lyrics from Simon & Garfunkel - but more than just a song that defined a young generations ideals, but perhaps that same generations malaise forty years later.

A recent study of baby boomers show that they are the most depressed of all people currently alive. That's some pretty heavy stuff.

Is it because their ideals that they fought for are being lost? Or did they never surface? Is it because they were hit by the worst of the economy - so close to retirement and now so far away. Is it because they were indulged too much as children, and as the first generation that really had it all, are now living in a world where we know that's not possible? Is it because they grew up in a period of wealth creation and are now crippled by that wealth disappearing or not bringing happiness? Is it because of the direction (perceived or actual) that our nation is heading?

Whatever it is, it's upsetting - on a national level but on a local and personal level. I'm sure many people see this in their lives and are severely impacted by it. It's an interesting conversation, and one where many factors have contributed to where we are now. A bigger question is how to work through it.