No elderly man should have to bow down before a much younger boy. Where is the respect for elders? Where is the establishment of status? With age comes due respect, in a sense – not to completely negate humility or for that matter, idiots also. But why is it that to some, a much younger boy (twenty-four is still considered young), would be exalted beyond such status? This is quite the case in many impoverished districts, which sadly enough is all too common here in India.
Isaac, an elderly Indian carpenter, who works with me here in India, is one of the kindest gentlemen I know. However, many may just ignore or not pay attention to the small details of his interactions, but to me it only raises a question: What about me makes me so above you through your perception? (speaking to Isaac, of course) Whether it be a question, a request, whatever it may be, he seems almost timid to ask, always beginning his inquiry with a soft, “Sir?” as if the master were to reply “Away from me, you worthless slave!” A little overboard? Sure. But it’s not entirely overdone.
Is it because of my upbringing? My coming from America – this o, so magnificent, rich, Western civilization that is far above and beyond the status of India? Is it the fact that I would be considered somewhat rich here? Regardless of what the conceptions of a “higher-class” citizen may be, it has no bearing on the respect due to elders. In my opinion, haven’t they already earned their respect through enduring the hardships of life? That in itself deems itself worthy of my full respect. Whether poor or rich, physically able or disabled, known or unknown, elders have my respect.
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