Maya Lin, the American architect and artist who designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., once said:

“To fly we have to have resistance.”

Lin’s words apply not only to physical flight but also to intellectual and emotional growth. To learn and to develop, we need to face challenges, to confront obstacles, and to overcome difficulties. And one of the biggest challenges that many young people encounter is the idea of a “generation gap” with their teachers. How can they relate to someone who seems so much older and so different from themselves?

The truth is that some of your teachers are actually closer in age to you than you think. Here are three things to keep in mind:

1. Age is just a number

Yes, there may be a few decades between you and some of your teachers. But that doesn’t mean you can’t connect with them on a personal level. After all, age is just a number. Think about some of the things you have in common with your teachers:

• You both enjoy learning.
• You both have goals and aspirations.
• You both have experiences and stories to share.
• You both have fears and doubts.

Remember that your teachers were once your age, too. They went through what you are going through. They struggled, they learned, and they grew. They may even have some tips, tricks, and insights to help you navigate your own journey.

2. Age diversity is a strength

Another thing to keep in mind is that age diversity can be a strength, not a weakness. In a classroom or a school, you will meet people from all walks of life and all age ranges. This diversity can enrich your learning experience in many ways:

• You can learn from different perspectives and worldviews.
• You can build empathy and understanding for people of all ages.
• You can practice teamwork and collaboration with people of different ages.
• You can develop communication and leadership skills across generations.

Don’t be afraid to embrace diversity and to seek out different perspectives. You never know what you might discover.

3. Age discrimination is a myth

Finally, it’s important to recognize that age discrimination is a myth. Just because someone is older or younger than you doesn’t mean they are better or worse. It doesn’t mean they are more or less capable. It doesn’t mean they are more or less valuable. We are all human beings, and we all have something to offer.

This doesn’t mean that everyone is perfect or that everyone gets along all the time. Conflicts and challenges can and do arise. But these should be seen as opportunities for growth and learning, not as excuses for division and animosity. Instead of focusing on age, focus on common ground, mutual respect, and open communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, here are three takeaways:

1. Age is just a number, and you can connect with your teachers on a personal level.
2. Age diversity is a strength, and you can learn from people of all ages.
3. Age discrimination is a myth, and you should focus on common ground, mutual respect, and open communication.

Remember, to fly we have to have resistance. Embrace the resistance, and soar.