Roll Reversal

The Lilly Pads on Mill Lake.


Young children have a number of qualities that make them lovable and at times just irresistible. Because of their youth and inexperience, they are gullible and naive. This makes them fun and interesting as these are also characteristics of innocence. We feel protective over them because there might be those who want to take advantage of them. Children also need us to care for them because there are so many things they cannot do for themselves, either because of physical weakness or just a lack of awareness or ability. Young children left to their own devices will eventually harm themselves. We all need to be needed and when the little ones are with us, we are needed for sure.
Now let us jump ahead 80 years. After a life fully lived, a human being reverts back to these very characteristics they had as a young child, however, not in a sweet and lovable new body. The feelings that were elicited by these characteristics now no longer endear but often repel. It becomes difficult to accept that a grown person who has had a lifetime of experience can be so vulnerable. The person who gave you protection and guidance as a child now needs the protection and guidance of his child. It is a roll reversal and it is difficult. Just as a child does not understand nor appreciate the interference in his life as his parents are raising him, nor does the aged person understand nor appreciate turning over the reins of decision making to his children. A lifetime of independence is not given up easily and so conflict can arise.
We can learn from this, that this too will happen to us, and when the time comes, with graciousness, accept help and advice where we once only dished it out.