Generational Admiration: What We Can Learn From Each Other

Amidst the ongoing discourse on the differences between generations, there is often an overlooked aspect: the admiration and respect that each generation holds for the other. This piece aims to highlight the qualities that we value in one another, specifically in the context of the younger generation's admiration for older people, and vice versa.

Young People's Admiration for Older People

The younger generation, as observed by many, is imbued with a remarkable sense of respect and admiration for their older counterparts. This is reflected in the way they interact, treat, and care for the elderly. These younger individuals often demonstrate an extraordinary level of respect, even when the older people are not mainstream or within the societal spotlight.

Take, for instance, my great nephew who is 3 years older than his special needs sister, now 23. When he was a baby, his sister ran into his legs, and he would say, "She just wants attention." However, when she started to walk and needed his support, he was proud and compassionate. His dedication to working with special needs kids in high school is another testament to his admirable character. Even more inspiring, he returned home from college to speak at a funeral for one of his special needs friends, expressing how much he admired him. He was always cheerful, never complained despite his personal issues, and was a regular attendee at the high school graduation party where he recounted pleasant stories, unaware of the complexities in his friend's life.

Older People’s Admiration for the Younger Generation

On the other hand, the older generation is often moved by the qualities and behaviors of the younger generation. Young people’s unwavering support and loyalty are deeply appreciated. For example, my great niece, who is 20, has maintained the same best friends since fourth grade. Even as those friends are now in college, they still include her in activities, sometimes taking her to sporting events without her mother or other adults being present. This level of care and consideration highlights the value and admiration that older people have for the younger generation.

Key Takeaways

From these examples, we can draw several key takeaways about what each generation admires in the other. For the younger generation, it is the respect, kindness, and selflessness exhibited by older people that stand out. These qualities foster a deep appreciation and admiration for the older generation. Conversely, the older generation values the loyalty, friendship, and unwavering support provided by the younger generation.

By understanding and valuing these qualities, we can build a more interconnected and respectful society. The admiration and respect between generations can serve as a foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation, ensuring that each group learns from and supports one another.

Ultimately, the admiration and respect between generations should extend beyond mere recognition of traits. It should inspire action and encourage individuals to embody these qualities in their interactions with one another. In doing so, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.