The Lessons Our Elders Can Teach Us

Source – CC0 Licence

Today’s partnered post contains affiliate links and focuses on the importance of respecting our “elders.”

It’s easy to get in the mindset that our generation is the only one who gets it. But the reality is that each generation has lived a life and had its own set of shared experiences. It is so important to remember that and to respect those that came before you. We have much to learn from them and they really do have a lot

They Will Teach Us New Skills

When it comes to senior citizens, there are many things can teach us. One example is sewing. It is a skill that has been lost over the years as access to clothes has become easier but it is great skill to have, none the less. My mom tried to teach me but I was never disciplined enough to really learn. Don’t make that mistake. Now we have many tools like quilting rulers and other modern implements of sewing, generations before us have made it happen with just a needle and thread.

It Reduces Ageism

If there is something we all need more of in this world, it’s tolerance. Now, it seems that we are all less tolerant of the differences in the world than ever. It’s important for us to break down those barriers, especially with those people in our immediate family who are different. For the sake of our kids and ourselves, spending time with other people who have much more experience than us will continue to broaden horizons and reduce judgements. You might not think that you are ageist, but you may very well have spent a lot of time thinking that something old is “bad.” And while ageism is, in many respects, a mild form of prejudice, if we can spend time fine-tuning our attitudes towards things like this, we will become far more open and receptive human beings.

They Will Not Be Around Forever

It’s easy for us to think of a grandparent as someone sitting in the corner with their own unique beliefs or attitudes, but there’s a lot that we can learn from them, good or bad. They are someone who has lived a whole life, and perhaps your kids don’t necessarily take the time to ask them about things that occurred way before they were born. Believe me, if you take the time to listen, those stories and memories will stay with you forever. Lead by example and appreciate the people you have in your life while you have them. So the next time your kids make a Mother’s Day card for you, maybe it’s time to make one for Grandma too?