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RE: Ecotrain Question of the Week - Does the saying "You should respect your elders" still hold true today?
Respect is earned.
I would argue being on this planet longer does not inherently earn you respect unless you've used that time wisely and learned from that time.
intersting.. im curious what you think it takes to earn your respect? Are there specific things that an elder needs to do to gain your respect?
I agree with @somethingsubtle here. All our political leaders ranging from Justin Trudeau(Yes he is 46) to Donald Trump are elders. It is not the age or gender that has to get respected, but the deeds and attitude! Many people live the same year 80 times and call it a life. Considering the vastness of the entire universe, our lifetime is insignificant even if it is 120 years. From a broader point of view, one should respect (That doesn't mean bow the head) others purely based on their actions. Even 5 year old child is capable of earn respect!
Live. Teach. Listen.
The inherent beauty of youth is that they will bring a beginner's mind to all things. Some of the tragedy of an elder is that they will approach new problems with old solutions and think themselves wise.
"Respect your elders" is like saying all traditions should be respected just because they are traditions. This is simply not true. Some traditions in this world are horrid, vile things that should be reconsidered and removed since they tear down more than they build up.