Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart

Intergenerational Bonding

"remember when you thought that, " and can watch the

changes and experience a lot of things through them all

over again and maybe do a little guiding along the way.

With the older, it's fun to listen and talk about their

experiences, history, and learn a few things to help

yourself out along the way. But with both, there's

always a common bond of laughter, interests (be it in

music, books, movies) that anyone can find if the time,

care, and concern is taken.

--Vicki Ironside, Alexander, Arkansas

Respectful questions are my technique.

genuinely interested in the other person and find

something that you have in common. Then, be willing

to listen sincerely, but I believe before any of this can

work, you have to develop a genuine love for each

person as Jesus did. I have made it my goal to love

every person and always concentrate on the positive

and good things about the person -- no matter what

age, etc. I often play the "what if' game. What if I were

that person, with their history, etc. All of this helps to

find the key to bonding with that individual.

Connie

Carr,

Hetts Summit, Missouri

I'm still working on these. Communication skills are

vital. Strive to see the world through their eyes. Help

them to understand where you're coming from. Allow

them to be who they are and utilize the talents and gifts

God has given them. Just because you don't agree on

some issues, doesn't mean the other person is going to

fail in life. Accept each other's differences and

encourage each other with the patience and love of

Christ.

Carol Wilterdink, Aurora, Colorado