It seems utterly daft that in modern society, a person is trusted to fly a plane, perform an operation, impart information...and then, the next day, they are not.
And with the passing of that one day, people fall into a different category. One that sees their contribution unvalued, their wisdom just humoured and not appreciated; their efforts doted patronisingly and not given the respect they would have held a short time before.
The world that markets products to them also looks at them through a different prism. In one fell swoop, they go into a demographic who it is presumed are consumed with thoughts of mobility aids, incontinence pads...and who or what is going to benefit from their ultimate largesse.
What a simplification of the ageing process? Instead, it should be an acknowledgment of the accumulation of wisdom, knowledge and empathy.
Next week is Positive Ageing Week, and COPE Galway and Galway City Council have joined forces to continue a campaign that shows how we should value those who have lived on this Earth longer than we have.
The appreciation of wisdom in the older person is a timeless value that transcends cultures and generations. In many societies, older individuals are regarded as the keepers of knowledge, experience, and life lessons. Their wisdom, accumulated through years of personal and communal experiences, is often seen as invaluable to the younger generations.
Elderly wisdom is rooted in the understanding that life is multifaceted, filled with both joys and challenges. Having lived through these ups and downs, older individuals often develop a more nuanced perspective on life, one that goes beyond surface-level reactions to embrace patience, humility, and resilience. This wisdom helps them offer advice that is not just practical but also emotionally attuned to the complexities of human experience. Their ability to see the bigger picture, to predict outcomes based on past experiences, and to offer guidance with empathy makes their insights particularly valuable.
In a fast-paced world where youth, innovation, and instant gratification are often prized, the appreciation of elderly wisdom serves as a grounding force. It reminds us that while progress is essential, understanding the lessons of the past is equally important. The older person can offer perspectives that can prevent younger generations from repeating mistakes and help them navigate life’s challenges with greater understanding and foresight.
Furthermore, wisdom in the elderly fosters a sense of community and continuity. It creates intergenerational connections, where young people benefit from the guidance of those who have walked a similar path before them. This mutual respect and exchange of knowledge promote societal cohesion and offer a counterbalance to the often ageist narratives present in modern media.
In essence, the appreciation of wisdom in the elderly honours the idea that life experience, tempered by time and reflection, is a treasure that can enrich us all. In conclusion, I am reminded of the value of patience and knowledge with the story about two bulls, one young and one old, both eyeing a field of cows on a lush farm.
“Why don’t we run down there and make love to one of those cows,” said the young buck. To which the elder replied. “Au contraire, my young friend. Why don’t we just walk down there and make love with all of them.”
