Having grown up amid neglect and unconventional circumstances, many of us from what’s often dubbed the 'Feral Generation' share an unspoken bond rooted in resilience and raw experience. Raised in environments that some might describe as wild — filled with clubbing from a young age, scarce supervision, and being 'knocked into next week' frequently — we often missed decades of traditional upbringing. Yet, this rough start led to a unique kind of toughness and vitality. The phrase 'missing several decades of our lives' resonates deeply with those of us who experienced fast-paced, chaotic youth that paradoxically preserved our youthful energy even into later years. The frequent reprimands and harsh realities we faced didn't break us; instead, they forged a generation that’s irreverent, spirited, and fiercely independent. We learned to navigate life with grit and humor, often relying on each other in tight-knit circles. What stands out most about this generation is not the adversity itself, but the ability to carry that history with pride and not shame. The sense of youthfulness isn't just physical; it's an attitude, a stubborn refusal to let early hardships define or limit us. We're proof that despite neglect or rough patches in youth, it’s possible to thrive and maintain a vibrant presence. Sharing this perspective feels important because it challenges stereotypes around neglect and 'lost' childhoods. Instead, it offers a narrative of survival, defiance, and ongoing vitality. If you identify with these experiences or know someone from the 'Feral Generation,' this post underscores that there’s strength and youth in endurance—and that the story doesn’t end with hardship but continues with boldness and life.