In my country, there is a saying that elders remind a child who needs to be loved and cared to feel safe in this world. I was grown in a very multi-national environment there a lot of nations around respected elders and they have been always asked before any major decision. From one point of view, it can be considered a good thing as they know a lot and can really guide the societies and people. At the same time, they are usually very conservative that sometimes create even more problems than solve any. I believe that there are always should be a balance and mutual respect for youth and elders and this is the base for the healthier society. I would say I would rather consider partnership rather when one looks into the other as a superior. it is always a joy to read your thought, @solarsupermama and I love what you always ask questions that make a reader think!