text: I reach the age 70 milestone in a few weeks. It seems our experiences, and lessons learned, differ considerably.
  
  I've learned 1) that silence in the presence of one's elders is out of fear more often than out of respect, 2) conversations between generations generate more respect than they do fear, and 3) fear can be created, but respect can only be earned. 
  
  Yes, age brings experience. It does not confer wisdom. But, if any wisdom should be gathered over one's years, it should be the wisdom of acceptance of oneself as not being all that wise.
  
  Know-it-all's in their seventies are no more tolerable than know-it-all's in their twenties.
  
  Listening to the young folk is an opportunity to learn.