A friend raised the question:
Do you ever feel like people discredit you for being young? Or that you have to work harder to prove yourself because you’re young?
Yep. In fact, at times my youth compels me to make sure my ducks aren’t just in a row, but that they’re perfectly aligned. Freshly bathed. Quacking on command.
Though my friend feels that being young is a good thing, she says that sometimes she’ll stumble on people who are condescending or don’t treat her like she knows what she’s doing because she’s young. Her heartcry is to be respected for the knowledge she does have… not what she does not.
I think youth can be a double-edged sword. Among people my age, I feel pretty much accepted and affirmed, because they’re so stinkin’ happy to see someone young pursuing their passion.
For those who are older, my youthfulness is kind of a novelty. Occasionally, after I’ve spoken about fulfilling the unique call on your life or loving God with your whole heart, I’ll have someone older come up to me and say, “I really love your hair!” or “You remind me of granddaughter!” or “You’re just as cute as a button.”
I’ve actually had my cheeks squeezed. Not those cheeks (fortunately!).
But it’s still hard at times.
So how do you handle being young…or old…or young at heart?
Honestly now, Do you look down on (or up to) those younger than you? Do you look up to (or down on) those older than you?
*Photo courtesy of here
