Today I had an interesting lunch with a work colleague that I very much respect. He's got 23 years on me which means he has a lot of experience to offer. When he shares, I listen.
While our work lunch started with our typical ramblings of the fate of the industry and next steps for both our companies, we found ourselves veering away from that by mid-lunch. The focus became more about age differences as he was about to head out on a date this coming weekend with a woman younger than he, and I, of course, am with a man 11 years older than me. Common ground for a very personal subject.
We discussed the challenges and interesting opportunities that an age difference can bring. Everything from expanding one's perspective to misunderstandings based on those unique perspectives. It was a fantastic conversation and when I arrived back into the office, it was followed up with another brief moment of age differences.
This song came on the radio and Chica came walking into the office. Fourteen years my younger, she suddenly broke out into a dance. In the middle of the office. Rocking away. It was a 30s dance party. It brought a smile and a laugh to everyone in the office. A perfect breather after a couple of stressful days.
And that's when it all snapped into place. Respect. It's ageless. It can show up in the form of a deep philosophical discussion, or it can show up in a moment of living life large.
Moments enjoying differences of ages.
Moments appreciating that respect can be ageless.
No comments:
Post a Comment