An Inuit grandmother and grandchild sharing the warmth provided by their hooded clothing. "Inuit" is the proper term for those whom we usually refer to as "Eskimos," or the group of indigenous people who live in the Arctic, Alaska, Greenland, parts of Quebec in Canada, and Russia.


In many cultures, the older members of the society are regarded as the ones most deserving of reverence. They are held in high esteem and are turned to for guidance. Their advancement in years is acknowledged as among the sources of their wisdom as well as the reason for their being worthy of respect.

The passage of time and the evolution of norms have not changed the position of authority that elders occupy in many societies. Not even the opportunities and conveniences that technological advancement can provide have diminished the way old people are reverenced in these societies. These old people may be the the family lolo and lola, the university's Professors Emeritus, the loyal family butler, the tribal chiefs, the village elders, Gramps and Granny...they take on many names. But they all are advanced in years. And it is this which makes them all the more worthy of respect--not to mention, a "golden" source of learning. If only we listen to them more.



posted by sunnyday at 3:32 PM

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