Friends R UsSample

Merging Generations 

Sometimes, managing age differences in relationships can have difficult challenges. But, the results are always good. My husband and I are 73 and 62 years old. We have children in their 40s and 30s.  Majority of our church population is 35 years old or younger. We are often the elders in our family and community. Some people would ask the question, “Does the age of your community matter?” Our response is no; however, there are differences that can be challenging.

Language Differences

Sometimes, when things are said within our community, we misunderstand one another  because of language differences. What was said in the 1970s and 80s is not always how it’s said in 2018. There are new words and phrases for the words and phrases we used in the past. In our opinion, Millennials are more effective at speaking to one another than they are to older generations. For example, we may desire a phone call to hear their voices, but they prefer to send a text message. Abbreviations like “LOL” or “HBU?” are things we never heard in the 70s and 80s. However, in order to connect, we have to learn what’s new, what’s “poppin.” In our community, we aim to meet in the middle, they call us and we text them. The results are good. 

 Can We Relate to Their Suffering? 

Sometimes, we choose to go out of our comfort zone to learn and help our family and friends with their afflictions. We have learned, despite our age difference, suffering is suffering and love and respect for one another will help us be there for those in our community. We pray that you don’t let your age hold you back from being a great friend. Remember, the results are always good! 

Written by Junior and Rhonda Burks