There are people of all ages in every family, community and institute. There are elders and there are younger individuals. The dictionary meaning for the word, ‘elder’ means, “Someone greater in age like; parents or grandparents and others of that age group. In a broader sense it can be applied to people who are superior in relation or age, for example; grandparent in the family, senior or teacher at school or leader of a club.”
There are people of all ages in every family, community and institute. There are elders and there are younger individuals. The dictionary meaning for the word, ‘elder’ means, "Someone greater in age like; parents or grandparents and others of that age group. In a broader sense it can be applied to people who are superior in relation or age, for example; grandparent in the family, senior or teacher at school or leader of a club.”
While studying, working or even in recreation we always tend to follow somebody. A small child would follow his family members. However, as they start grow up, there are others to emulate. Peers at school, people in the neighbourhood or those with whom one interacts for a short time; any individual can be a source of inspiration. This adaptation can be in behavior or habits. It can be for good or bad.
Nonetheless, one thing is crystal clear. One can always learn from the elders around them. They are always there to show you the way in the world, as to what is right and what is wrong. This may not be necessarily in form of words or preaching, one can learn a lot simply by observing elders.
If one sees an elder who is successful in his field, his habits and way of working can be observed. Then one can analyze them and decide on the elements which have helped them to be successful. If needed, he can also discuss with the elderly person and take his advice about his doubts, apprehension or failures in studies or work. After all if somebody is older than you, they have more experience of the world.
Learning from elders is useful not only for positive things but negative aspects of life as well. If you see somebody senior failing in some field, you can see the reasons for their failure. Thus, you can make the choice of not repeating the same mistake.
If an elderly person behaves or talks in a way which is not agreeable to people, see that you do not talk or behave in that manner too. If they have healthy habits, copy them. If the habits are damaging to their physical health, see that you do not fall prey to such habits.
Consider your elders as beacons of life. You can always learn something positive in their company and shape your life in a better way.
The writer is a Grade 12 student at Green Hills Academy.
arundhati94@yahoo.co.uk