Respect – the Foundation to True Intimacy

Maybe this is one reason why we have not managed to establish the Vanaprastha ashram so far. Giving guidance to the younger generation and sharing their wealth of life experience and wisdom is the main and most valuable contribution the elders are making to human society. And this can only take place where giving and accepting shelter based on deep respect is cultivated. When this respect is not there, the elders don't have any function in human society and are simply seen as a burden.