The American military is being affected by the poor health of the present younger generation
Army of Couch Potatoes?
The poor health of the present younger generation has begun to impact the American military. The current recruiting pool of 17- to 24-year-olds, often referred to as Generation Y, is increasingly proving too obese and too reliant on mind-altering drugs that treat attention deficit disorders to be capable of attaining the basic standards of military service.
While we may not serve in the military, we can learn something from the trends in the society around us. What is making these young people so unhealthy, and how can we avoid the same pitfalls? As soldiers of Christ, we, too, have certain standards to uphold (2 Timothy 2:3).
The United States is suffering from a 30 percent rise in obesity among adults, a decline in physical fitness in which one third of teenagers are considered unable to pass a treadmill test, and, partly due to the former two issues, an increasing reliance on drugs to solve hyperactivity problems that could be decreased by losing weight and increasing exercise (Pauline Jelinek, "Uncle Sam Wants You—Well, Not All of You in Prime Recruiting Age Group," Associated Press, March 12).
Watching our health and losing weight if necessary, adopting a healthier eating plan and getting more exercise are ways to combat the unhealthy influences of society. Our physical bodies are a blessing from God, and it is important to treat them with respect. For more information, request or download Making LIfe Work .
