In the timeless epic “The Odyssey,” the character Mentor plays a pivotal role as a trusted guide and mentor. When Odysseus embarks on his journey, Mentor is entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing his household. Yet, it is when Odysseus’s son, Telemachus, sets out on his quest to find his father that Mentor’s significance truly shines. In a twist of divine wisdom, Athena, the goddess of wisdom, assumes the guise of Mentor to impart not just knowledge but also profound wisdom and courage to the young Telemachus. This ancient narrative beautifully illustrates the transformative power of mentorship, where a seasoned individual (Mentor) nurtures the growth of a younger one (Telemachus) by guiding them through life’s trials and experiences. This age-old concept resonates across cultures and generations, emphasising the value of intergenerational wisdom transmission.
“I thought, ‘Those who are older should speak, for wisdom comes with age.’” Job 32:7
Have you had the chance to watch the heartwarming series, “Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds”? This touching show tugs at the heartstrings as it showcases the incredible connections between elderly residents and spirited youngsters. It’s a testament to the profound impact of intergenerational living, something we often overlook in today’s Western society. The benefits are plentiful on both sides, as this unique interaction reduces social isolation, fosters a sense of belonging, enhances well-being, and boosts self-esteem among the elderly. Simultaneously, it hones the social and emotional skills of the young participants (Jayson, 2018).
So what does this have to do with wisdom, our current knowledge quest?
While many argue that wisdom must be gleaned from personal experiences, including trials and tribulations, and that it cannot be taught directly, there is a crucial role for seasoned mentors in this journey. These mentors, in various guises, can help individuals make sense of their experiences, enabling them to reach meaningful conclusions more rapidly.
Imagine a scenario where children have the opportunity to interact with older individuals who have TIME and are willing to listen intently to their stories, with all their intricate details. In return, these seasoned individuals share their wealth of experiences and learning. This nurturing exchange becomes an incubator for wisdom, where insights are cultivated and refined. A study examining an intentional intergenerational wisdom-sharing program revealed “significant positive effects for the BCLT participants regarding their sense of purpose in life, attitudes toward older people, comfort interacting with older people, and interest in working with older people. The subjective assessments of the participants were overwhelmingly positive” (Pillemer, et al., 2022).
We are all somewhere on the age scale. Let’s put it in perspective, most of us are ahead of some and behind others on this journey. We both have something to give and something to gain from the intergenerational exchange of wisdom.
Who are you mentoring? Who is mentoring you? Embrace the multigenerational movement, for it is through this exchange that wisdom truly flourishes.