It is true that many older people believe in traditional values that often seem
incompatible with the needs of younger people. While I agree that some traditional
ideas are outdated, I believe that others are still useful and should not be forgotten.
On the one hand, many of the ideas that elderly people have about life are becoming
less relevant for younger people. In the past, for example, people were advised to learn
a profession and find a secure job for life, but today's workers expect much more variety
and diversity from their careers. At the same time, the 'rules' around relationships are
being eroded as young adults make their own choices about who and when to marry.
But perhaps the greatest disparity between the generations can be seen in their
attitudes towards gender roles. The traditional roles of men and women, as breadwinners
and housewives, are no longer accepted as necessary or appropriate by most younger
people.
On the other hand, some traditional views and values are certainly applicable to the
modern world. For example, older generations attach great importance to working hard,
doing one's best, and taking pride in one's work, and these behaviors can surely benefit
young people as they enter today's competitive job market. Other characteristics that
are perhaps seen as traditional are politeness and good manners. In our globalized
world, young adults can expect to come into contact with people from a huge variety
of backgrounds, and it is more important than ever to treat others with respect. Finally,
I believe that young people would lead happier lives if they had a more "old-fashioned"
sense of community and neighborliness.
In conclusion, although the views of older people may sometimes seen unhelpful in today's
world, we should not dismiss all traditional ideas as irrelevant.