Synopsis: The youngest Boomers are not quite fifty; the oldest have
already turned sixty-five. A generation that started out in the 1960s,
determined to be young forever, is now asking what the point is of
growing old. Convinced they were special, Boomers discounted authority
and charted their own course. They believed they could make the world
better by pursuing freedom. The legacy of the Boomer experiment is
becoming evident. Freedoms that were new when Boomers were young are now
taken for granted, and we are living "after freedom." Are our freedoms
real or illusory? Can we count on anything to be certain? Do virtue and
character matter? In a secular age can we recover respect for the
sacred? The time is ripe for Boomers to reconsider those good things in
the past they refused to honor, to voice their blessings for generations
who will shape the future, and to reclaim conviction as they stand firm
and dare to say, "This is what I believe." Endorsements: "Baby Boomers,
this is for you! With so many of us still on the planet, it's not
surprising that we have gleaned more than a fair share of attention.
We've been identified as today's leaders, consumers, investors,
philanthropists; the people to court, analyze, enlist, survey, and
solicit. Mary VanderGoot's astute observations and incisive conclusions
make a timely contribution to understanding this generation and its
effect on those who are following." --Harry Stout Yale University. "In a
time when superficiality trumps depth, Dr. VanderGoot provides
thoughtful, solid reasons for investing in the lives of other people. In
her hands, perceptions of aging are transformed from a long, slow
decline into one of life's great, good gifts." --Helen M. Sterk Western
Kentucky University. "Mary VanderGoot expertly traces the diminution of
authority and the weakening of social bonds to the paradoxical nature of
freedom articulated by Baby Boomers. I have not yet read a portrait of
the Boomers that combines so well sensitive diagnosis with intelligent
advice, making this book a singular achievement, particularly since the
shortcomings of the Boomers' world are becoming ever more apparent."
--Jeffrey Polet Hope College Author Biography: Mary VanderGoot is a
Licensed Psychologist, Marriage and Family Therapist, and Addictions
Counselor. She is a graduate of Princeton University where she earned a
PhD in psychology. In addition to her work as a therapist, Dr.
VanderGoot has been a university professor and author of numerous books
and articles including: A Life Planning Guide for Women, Narrating
Psychology, and Healthy Emotions.
