You are young intelligent and full of life - don't ever lose that!
I am also a "brat" (airforce), and I've come to try to accept that we were maybe raised a little differently than the "average" American family..
Sadly, many people of your generation have been raised often "without consequences". Nothing is their fault (blame it on someone or something else) and they are responsible for very little in their lives (mom & dad will bail me out). If this economy continues to slide, I KNOW that you will be alright!
As far as the bitterness....there is a saying from my generation; "Shut your mouth and open your mind". Too bad more people don't adhere to (or remember) it. And Larry is right, "a way of life for some"...sad isn't it?
Shelbie, please TRY to make it to a convention - it's a totally different atmosphere than what you see on this board (no trolls either!).