Some valuable life advice from Newcastle’s older generation

As people go through their daily lives, they often overlook the vast knowledge and experience held by the elderly.

As young people, we tend to forget that the generations ahead of us have been through what we are yet to experience.

Therefore, taking their advice to heart would be an asset in our story as it unfolds, saving us from making silly mistakes. Former South African President Nelson Mandela once emphasised the significance of cherishing the elderly, stating, “A society that does not value its older people denies its roots and endangers its future.”

With this profound statement in mind, Newcastillian News sought advice from elderly members for the younger generation. Here’s what they had to say:

Corrine Barnes:

Corrine Barnes, who resides in a retirement village and has experience running an old age home herself, provided valuable insight into how many younger people become so engrossed in their own lives that they neglect to visit their elderly parents and relatives. As a result, the elderly can feel pushed aside and forgotten.

“I feel when someone lands up in a place like this, how their family treats them is setting an example for their children, and their children will treat them exactly the same way when they are left at an old age home or retirement village,” said Barnes.

Barnes stressed that during her time running an old age home and living in a retirement village, she had witnessed too many instances where elderly residents were not visited by their children, grandchildren, or other family members.

“Grandparents thrive on seeing their grandchildren, and even if you live overseas, WhatsApp or phone your parents, get your children to talk to their grandparents. Also, get people to visit your loved ones if you aren’t able to,” she emphasised.

She further said that young people need to prioritise family over goals, as when you reach the later years, no goal achieved will compare to how your relationship with your family turned out.

Peter Smith:

Peter Smith highlighted the contrasting eras in which the elderly and the younger generation grew up. He strongly advocated for the younger generation to be multiskilled in a world where everything is computerised.

“Everything is computerised these days, and people are no longer multiskilled. I am multiskilled, and I would encourage others to be the same. Learn as much as possible so you can do things yourself,” Smith encouraged.

Marie Liefbroer:

Looking at the constantly changing world, Marie Liefbroer emphasised two vital things that younger people should know.

“Make sure you get an education or else you won’t be able to do anything and put your faith in God,” said Liefbroer.

Girly Hadebe:

Having witnessed tremendous changes in the world from her younger years, Girly Hadebe stressed the importance of leading a virtuous life where manners and faith play essential roles.

“The younger generation should always show respect to others and should keep on praying every day of their lives.”

Ben Greyling:

Ben Greyling took a stoic approach in his advice, acknowledging the challenges of offering advice from one generation to another, given the vast differences between their worlds.

“We live in two different worlds, and one can’t give much advice as everything has changed. I would just say let the younger generation carry on with their lives and find themselves in the world,” said Greyling.

Santie Botha:

Santie Botha encouraged youngsters to anchor themselves in the spiritual realm, rather than being consumed by material possessions. “Hold onto your anchor and God’s word, as only God’s word can help guide you,” she said.

Furthermore, a few elderly spoke to Newcastillian News, yet did not want to be mentioned by name. However, in speaking with us they collectively agreed that your time on this earth flies.

As one grandmother said, “Your choices now will echo throughout your life. Your arrogance will definitely not serve you when you are over the hill and sitting in an old age home. So be mindful of the character you are creating as you go through the stages of life.”

Another elderly gentleman merely said, “You have one life and you cannot believe how fast it goes by. Your youth lasts for such a short period of time and this is why you must embrace it before it is gone.”

With these wise words, let us not forget the important role the elderly play in our lives and let’s learn as much as possible from them.

With all the above in mind, what are your thoughts on the advice given? Share your views in the comment section below.