“Ageism is as odious as racism and sexism.” – Claude Pepper

There’s a shameful struggle going on.

The struggle is Ageism. On both sides of the equation. The old are often seen as a drain on society. The young are stereotyped as having nothing to say. It’s a sad reality, and it shouldn’t be allowed to continue.

Unfortunately, many seniors go along with the idea. They reason that their day has passed. As for the young, well, most have been conditioned it’s best to avoid any hassle and just keep quiet.

There are even uniforms for our unknowing combatants. The old put on dull clothing, the youth dress in their trendy styles, while those in power proudly don their respectability. All making each side easy to spot.

The saddest part is how little the powerful understand the irreparable damage caused by this silent daily struggle.

The notion of old folks not having value, or children only being seen and not heard is just plain wrong.

Age discrimination will stop happening when we, as a culture, start to understand how wisdom can come at every age.

When those at both ends of our spectrum value themselves enough to contribute to the conversation, and those in power begin to listen. It’s the wise, sage individual who we should look to for leadership, no matter their age.

There are sages all around us, but because they don’t have assigned clothing, they’re not easy to spot; they could be disguise as an other.

The sage is best noticed within those who have started their journey to contemplative, enlightened, sharp, smart, and sound thinking. They are the ones who are open to becoming astute, aware, and discerning; along with intuitive and perceptive.

By now, sages have learned Emerson’s warning not to let foolish consistencies become the hobgoblin of little minds. Believing only one side has all the answers, or that new ideas never work, or that certain new styles are not allowed to leave the house.

Think about the committees you’ve been on, or the board tables you’ve sat around, or even a recent family discussion. What voice controlled the conversation? Was it the powerful voice or the one that was sage? Were there hobgoblins in the discussion?

I bet you know sages of all ages. Tell me about them. Tell me why you admire them and enjoy being in their company.

Tell me about other cultures who have embraced The Sage.

As always, the conversation starts here.

“In the ordinary choices of every day we begin to change the direction of our lives.” – Eknath Easwaran

Epilogue

There is sage advice from this Muslim wisdom. If I make the interfaith choice to listen.