The age versus experience conundrum

Young people are in a hurry. They cannot see why others appear to slow them down, purposefully they say. It is part of the impatience of youth and the coolness that comes with age. While it is a gross generalization, mature people are calmer, less prone to histrionics and consider their next move carefully, where years of experience have taught them the art of patience and sometimes procrastination, which can work in their favor.

Under these circumstances young people want quick results, but are not willing to make the effort required to achieve them. They have the advantage of new technology, that has relieved them of much of the tedious work older people had to engage in during their growing years. So mobile phones internet, lap tops, spell check have all made communication much easier, removing barriers to engaging in conversation with total strangers in far flung places using different means

They do not think about the lack of experience of the ways of the world. They are unaware of how little they know about human psychology. It is usually learned through experience dealing with different types of personalities. This handicap cannot be explained until experienced.

The resulting chasm creates a gulf of understanding between generations, leading to difficult relationships with parents who do not see things the way their kids do and vice versa. It is this lack of communication that creates much discord leading to misunderstanding which is very evident in Sri Lankan Universities as far as dealing with the faculty and the Vice Chancellor are concerned. The latter are more concerned about law and order, and ensuring that classes are not disrupted. They do not want trouble makers destroying University property and common amenities, whilst the students’ goals and aims are different. They see a conspiracy to keep them subjugated, not educated. They perceive it is the fault of the politically appointed heads, bent on imposing their political masters’ ideology on students who are radically socialist, something that is common in varying degrees all across the Globe. This is borne out of idealism, which converts into realism with age and responsibility.

It is therefore important for youth to understand that there are differences and to accommodate them fairly and only give vent to feelings when injustice overcomes reasonable behavior.