That’s my grandpa, checking what I’m up to on Facebook. Yes. Facebook.
Facebook was invented in 2004. My grandpa was “invented” in 1940. That’s like having a 13-year old walk into your house when you’re 77 who says:
“Yo! I’m the boss now. If you want to know what goes on outside these four walls you’ll have to go through me – and we’re playing by my rules.”
Can you imagine how tough that is? Everyone who’s even so much as trying deserves nothing but respect.
Hence, the first thing I’d like to say to those, who were born in the 30s, 40s or 50s, is this:
If you want us to learn from you, you have to show us you’re willing to learn from us too.
You’ll earn our respect, attention and the power to make us think deeply about what you teach us.
The second thing I want to say is:
You’re right. You’re absolutely god damn right. You have so much to teach us and we’re not learning enough from you.
We’re always keen to tell our elders how the world has changed, but there’s so much that hasn’t.
- Relationships. You’ll never find the perfect partner and you’ll never be liked by everyone. Might as well stick with the one you’ve got and not give a damn about the rest.
- Commitment. Nothing’s really fun for the first year or two – because you suck. But if you don’t throw in the towel after six months, you might get a seat in a joyride that lasts a lifetime.
- Frugality. My grandparents remember food stamps. Food stamps! Can you imagine how it feels to beg for food? Meanwhile, we’re throwing away two day old yogurt. Is that really necessary?
- Gratitude. There was a time when the world wasn’t bursting at the seams with opportunity. There will come a time when it won’t. Until then, let’s cherish what we have while we have it. Not after it’s gone.
- Patience. Nothing good ever happens tomorrow. But if you work hard today, maybe something good will happen next year.
- Composure. When they had to move for the first time in their life at over 70 years old, my grandparents didn’t lose it. No complaints. They took it in stride. I jump when my phone so much as rings. Hmm…
- Pragmatism. “Let 5 be an even number for once.” Some chances, deadlines and opportunities just fly by us and we can’t even wave at them. Let them. There’s always a next one coming.
My grandparents have taught me all this and more. I think showing them how to use Facebook is the least I can do.
