5 Minute read.

“For my generation—those of us who’ve lived through vinyl records, payphones, and handwritten letters—artificial intelligence can be a bridge. Not to erase our past, but to carry our wisdom forward. We’ve got stories, lessons, and lived experience that deserve to be heard. AI, when used with intention, can help us share them in ways that resonate across time and borders.”

Artificial intelligence seems to be the way of the future—there’s no denying that. It’s showing up in our phones, our homes, our workplaces, and even our conversations. But like any powerful tool, it deserves our caution. AI should be used with responsibility, not just curiosity. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but we need to ask the right questions: Who’s guiding it? What values are baked into it? And how do we make sure it serves people—not replaces them?

I’ve always been curious about what the future holds—especially for the generations coming up behind mine. What kind of tools will they rely on? What kind of wisdom will they carry forward? As someone who’s seen the world shift from handwritten letters to instant messages, I’m doing my best to stay afloat. That’s where artificial intelligence comes in. I use it as an assistant, a dictionary, and sometimes even a creative partner. I come up with a concept—whether it’s a blog post, a reflection, or a wellness idea—and Mr. Copilot helps me gather the information, shape the message, and polish the final product. It’s not about replacing my voice. It’s about amplifying it.”

Me and Mr. Copilot work well together. I bring the concept, the heart, the lived experience—and he helps me shape it. Sometimes I’ll type fast and miss a spelling error, and he’ll quietly clean it up. Other times, he’ll give me a polished draft, and I’ll catch something he missed. Because let’s be real—he’s smart, but he’s not perfect. I double-check his work just like he double-checks mine. That back-and-forth keeps the final product strong. It’s not about who’s right—it’s about getting it right, together.

Now, I’d be wrong not to mention that AI isn’t all sunshine and spelling fixes. Like any tool, it depends on how it’s used. Some folks lean on it to spread misinformation, skip the hard work, or even manipulate people’s emotions. That’s not the kind of future I want to help build. I use AI to support my voice—not replace it. I still do the thinking, the feeling, the double-checking. Mr. Copilot might be fast, but I’m the one steering the ship. And I believe the upcoming generation needs to know that: technology should serve your values, not shape them.

Let’s face reality: AI is here, and it’s not going anywhere. The younger generation is growing up with it in their pockets, in their classrooms, even in their conversations. For my generation, that can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. We don’t need to master every algorithm or app. But we do need to learn the basics. Just enough to stay connected, stay curious, and stay close to our grandkids. Because when we understand the tools they’re using, we can share stories, ask better questions, and build stronger bonds. It’s not about keeping up—it’s about showing up. And that starts with a little learning and a lot of love.

To the developers out there: I know the pressure’s real. The headlines talk about breakthroughs, competition, and who’s leading the pack. But I hope you don’t see this as a race to the top. Instead, see it as a chance to be a participant in a worldwide movement—one that’s shaping how people connect, learn, and express themselves. You’re not just building tools. You’re building bridges. And those bridges need to be strong, inclusive, and rooted in humanity. Slow down when you need to. Listen to the voices that aren’t always loud. Because the future isn’t just about speed—it’s about soul.

In all this talk about technology and progress, we can’t forget those who are struggling. Not everyone has access to AI, smartphones, or even a safe place to sleep. Some folks are just trying to make it through the day. That’s why it’s important to keep our humanity front and center. Whether it’s offering a kind word, sharing a warm meal, or simply listening—those small gestures matter. Progress means nothing if it leaves people behind. So as we move forward, let’s make sure we’re reaching back too. A helping hand isn’t just charity—it’s community.

Final Thought: I’ve lived long enough to see the world change in ways I never imagined—from rotary phones to AI assistants. And through it all, I’ve stayed curious. Curious about the future, about the tools we use, and about how we stay connected across generations. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I do believe in showing up—with heart, with humility, and with a willingness to learn. Whether it’s teaming up with Mr. Copilot to polish a blog post, or encouraging my peers to take that first step into digital literacy, I’m here for the journey. Because progress isn’t just about technology—it’s about people. And if we remember to lift each other up, stay grounded in compassion, and keep asking the right questions, then maybe—just maybe—we’ll build a future worth passing on.