GENERATION GAP

 Youth, middle-age, and older want to interact and understand each other.  Many obstacles can interfere with the process.  We naturally understand our own peer group better than we understand the younger and older generations.  The desire to bridge the generation gap is the first step.

When our flesh and blood combines with our mate, we form a new person.  As we nourish the body, mind, and conscience of that new being, we should also teach them how to think not just what to think.  Don't despair when they form new ways of thinking, different opinions and beliefs.  They will incorporate their parents' generation with their own.  A natural gap will form.  

The times when we grew up help form our identity, but we need to proceed forward.  No generation is the greatest  generation; the good ole days were not always so good.  In fact, no period of history is really any better than any other.  Focus on the progress of each year as it passes.  Adapt to the present and the future.   Evolve as you add each year of life.

Nothing should be considered old-fashioned; it is just the sign of those times.  New things shouldn't always be preferred or feared or avoided because they are also the sign of these times.  If you get set in your ways of the past, you might give up the joys of the present.  Keep growing until your last breath.

Take the time to get to know other age groups and see what you have in common.  Don't dwell on the differences which seem more obvious.   Narrow the gap between childhood and adulthood, between adulthood and the elderly.  We were just born at different times.   The older we are, the more we have experienced, and hopefully the wiser we have  become.  Respect your elders and elders, earn the respect.    

LEGACY

 

More than your family tree and genealogy, write down your story and include pictures.  This can be shared while you are still alive and will be a legacy for generations to come.  Your life story is as valuable as anyone else's.  Admit that you want to be remembered.  Don't leave it up to others to pass on your history.  What they have witnessed is only part of your life. 

Don't get overwhelmed trying to remember.  Make a plan, take your time, but don't procrastinate.  Do a little bit each day or every other day so as not to exhaust yourself.  Use photos to add to your memories.  Remember you can add more later and revise before your final copy.  However you want to do it, just start writing!  As your life progresses, continue writing your story.

Some people research those family members who have gone before them.  The more information they find, the more they want to know.  Dates, places, and other facts can be found, but what a treasure to find something a person has written down about their own life.  Give this gift to your family.