Arab Spring.

If you're like me and constantly glued to any source of news, you might have recently heard the term 'Arab Spring.' Did you wonder exactly what that meant? It really is a perfect term to describe what is happening in northern Africa and the Middle East. The term refers to the social 'awakening' that led to revolutions, large-scale demonstrations, and protests within at least 14 countries in the region.

The people are tired of oppressive regimes controlling their lives. They're tired of lacking opportunity for personal and professional growth. They're tired of seeing glimpses of the good things the world has to offer and not being able to enjoy them. That exhaustion led to frustration. That frustration led to anger. That anger led to the 'awakening.'

Through the use of modern technology and online social media, many people of my generation have finally become capable of organizing events to protest the arrogant and power hungry dictators of their countries. Echoing some of my own sentiments, they likely thought that enough is enough. If the older generation can't keep up with or provide for the world today, then it is time for them to step down or go elsewhere. Many of the organizers, protestors, and demonstrators are college educated, but lack the opportunity for a fulfilling job or career. They are frustrated with the extreme levels of government corruption, human rights violations, inflations, and poverty.

So far, we've seen dictatorships crumble in Tunisia and Egypt. Libya is in a sustained civil war. There have been uprisings in Bahrain, Syria, and Yemen. The actions aren't limited to those countries though. The movement is spreading like wild fire. Countries like China and Cuba have increased censorship and tightened security to prevent similar situations.

Changes are necessary. We can only hope for a positive outcome and brighter future.