Young Punks and Old Codgers

[John of Japan]

I'm what could be considered middle-aged. As I grow older, I am discovering a growing appreciation for the teachable moments that come with life's experiences. With this in mind, I think there is something to the adage about wisdom comming with age when referring to seniors.

A small aside- I was blessed to grow up knowing all four of my grandparents, and knowing them well. I was especially close to my maternal Grandpa. He had a fifth (?) grade education, but learned about life first during the Depression and then WWII. Despite his lack of formal education he was, I believe, the wisest man I have ever met.

Well said. I think even the wickedest old person may have life some experience that an attentive younger person may learn from, if only what not to do. And godly older people without a doubt have many things to teach us.

 

[John of Japan]

Interesting forum discussion for an older bloke. My father could neither read nor write, he used words he had heard completely out of context, but he was still my father.

Respect follows two paths; respect because of seniority, and respect that is earned in seniority.

Like when officiating a sport, respect is earned by the respect shown to the game (life) and respect shown to the players.

In here, we can respectfully disagree, but often we must learn when to shut up.

Cheers, and bless,

Jim

Well said, Brother Jim.

 

[J.D.]

John, no, unfortunatley, you will find respect for elders in America only in exceptional situations. Even in many churches they are welcome only as long as they keep their mouths shut and pretend that the new temple is as glorious as the old temple.

 

[John of Japan]

John, no, unfortunatley, you will find respect for elders in America only in exceptional situations. Even in many churches they are welcome only as long as they keep their mouths shut and pretend that the new temple is as glorious as the old temple.

As I told a young gun here on the BB once, you'll be old too someday. But they don't listen.

 

[Jon-Marc]

Respect is earned-not demanded or automatically given just because a person reaches a certain age. I believe that all people should be treated kindly, but my respect has to be earned--just as I believe that I have to earn the respect of others.

God tells us to love others, but I don't remember any scripture that demands us to respect others. God is certainly no respector (sp?) of persons. I had a supervisor who told me, "You might not respect me, but you have to respect my position." I had no respect for any of my many supervisors who abused their power. Some supervisors were kind and fair, but most were tyrants and showed favortism to those they liked and treated the rest us like dirt. Complaining to their boss did no good.

 

[John of Japan]

Respect is earned-not demanded or automatically given just because a person reaches a certain age. I believe that all people should be treated kindly, but my respect has to be earned--just as I believe that I have to earn the respect of others.

Thanks for taking the poll and posting.

What do you think of the dichotomy I set forth of the difference between showing respect and having respect from the heart?

God tells us to love others, but I don't remember any scripture that demands us to respect others. God is certainly no respector (sp?) of persons. I had a supervisor who told me, "You might not respect me, but you have to respect my position." I had no respect for any of my many supervisors who abused their power. Some supervisors were kind and fair, but most were tyrants and showed favortism to those they liked and treated the rest us like dirt. Complaining to their boss did no good.

What do you think of the Scriptures I mentioned in the OP which I believe teach showing respect to older folk?