Essays

The gap between the two generations—young and old—is what is called the generation gap. It has been there since time immemorial.

The young generation is inexperienced, rash and impatient; the elders have wisdom through experience and are cautious and steady.

Those belonging to the old generation wonder as to what has gone wrong with the new generation. They feel their own times were much better. Youngsters on the other hand feel they can manage their affairs on their own and do not need to depend on elders at all.

This gap is widening with the passage of time. First, young people feel the present system of education has little relevance with the realities of life. It is not employment oriented.

Second, life is so busy that parents find no time to be with their children. Efforts to promote intimacy and understanding between the young and the old are lacking.

Third, the young also find fault with what is happening in the country. They are disgusted with inefficiency and corruption and slowness. They are not prepared to listen to elders as to what to do. They represent a restless lot.

In India, tradition is prevalent. The young oppose this and want their way of doing things. They are not used to hard work—they prefer short cut and instant results.

The young by and large have no respect for traditional customs and manners. They wish to do things in their own way.

The gap has widened and it is becoming difficult to bridge the gap. The young and the old seem to be living in two different worlds without much integration. The elders could however adopt a sympathetic attitude towards the young—understanding their emotions, aspirations and their problems.

On the other hand, young ought to realize that they are without experience of life. They could thus benefit from advice of elders—that is, they could take advantage of the experience of elders—but first they must respect age.

In western countries this gap is wider. The moment younger folk are in their teens they separate from their parents and attempt earning their livelihood and embark on travel. Likewise, the old tend to separate too and live in Old Age Homes or just the two parents together.

Here in India, the problem is not that acute owing to the joint family system. Here conditions are relatively better. We have well tried out and successful Indian social, economic and family traditions.

It is better the two generations understanding each other better. Each one is in its own place. If the two cooperate, it can work wonders and become a formidable force. There is strength in unity. Instead of staying aloof and losing out, the two generations could co-exist in peace and harmony to the advantage of both the age groups.

Imagine For a While

You are above sixty, retired from job. Now you seek pleasure in being with your children and grandchildren. But, they instead of giving you what you need don't like you being among themselves.

How do you feel?

Friends, all of us have to get old one day. –So care your parents and grandparents.