In many cultures, particularly tribal cultures, respect for the elders is an essential element. Elders are respected for the wealth of their experience, and the fruits of many years of reflecting on the ebb and flow of life. Their mellow approach to crises, their calmness when others panic, their wise words of advice, the sum of their own experience coupled with the wisdom given to them by their fathers and mothers, gain the respect from the young and the middle-aged. They are given the place of honor in the circle when the family or community gathers. When they speak, all listen.
So it was with the aged Simeon and Anna; when they spoke, Mary and Joseph listened, so much so that Mary was able to give Luke the details of their encounter with the holy family, and particularly with the infant Jesus. We might do well to learn from these two elders, the wisdom of paying close attention to the words of our own elderly.
Bro. Rene
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