The Intergenerational Edge

At 30 years old, I still call my aunts for the same advice I resisted receiving in my teenage years. Living alone in a foreign city, I recognize the guidance I thought I was too smart for years ago is actually a lifeline I desperately need to cling to now. 

Titus 2:3-4 says “Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior…they are to teach what is good, and so train the young women”. 

I was pretty lonely in high school. A youth leader at church extended far beyond her duties and would take me out to coffee, came to my theater productions and made sure I felt seen at youth group. Confidence is so delicate and tender at that age. She was in her early twenties at the time, going above and beyond for a younger sister in Christ. 

In that same church, I’d volunteered in the nursery at age 11, then camp for preschoolers at age 12, then camp for elementary schoolers at age 13, and so on. I felt deeply responsible for the children right behind me.

My mom’s friends sometimes call me for help with technology. I explain how to open a Google drive patiently, step by step. I make the letters on their phone keyboards bigger. It’s my joy and duty to do so.

I have received such edification, wisdom and through my intergenerational friendships. 

Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts”. 

-Written by Christy Bradley