"Those of us in the latter two categories blame everyone older than us for the dire state of the world today (a viewpoint that sometimes ignores the fact that the world has been getting worse since the big bang). And let's face it, it's impossible to not be bewildered and feel attacked by people younger than you when they automatically dismiss your life experiences, start speaking seemingly in code (I still don't know what six-seven means) and laugh at your idea of fashion."
"But all of this antagonism may result in a major loss of opportunity because there is truly nothing as rewarding as a good intergenerational friendship. I have the benefit of having a number of friends who are both much younger than me, and somewhat older than me, and the exchanges we have of ideas, advice and points of view are undoubtedly making me a better person."
Intergenerational tension among baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z has intensified, driven by mutual misunderstanding, stereotyping, and blame over social and environmental decline. Younger generations often attribute current crises to older generations, while older generations feel dismissed and bewildered by younger people's language, culture, and fashion. Such antagonism risks squandering opportunities for meaningful relationships. Intergenerational friendships enable exchanges of ideas, advice, and perspectives that improve individuals, challenge assumptions, and counter generational stereotypes. Friendships with slightly older individuals during adolescence can build confidence, perspective, and a sense that learning from elders need not compromise emerging independence.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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