I have a GBF. They’re really great. Tells amazing stories, cooks incredible food, super interesting, and all around superb person.

My geriatric best friend is awesome.

I know that you were probably thinking I was going to write about having a Gay Best Friend as the acronym GBF is most commonly used for. But I’m actually writing about having friends who are of an older generation.

Not many people our age do this and it’s really a shame.

I’ve always liked hanging around older folks. Even when I was little. And this only grew as I got older.

There’s really something to be taken from being friends with someone who is significantly older than you. The biggest being the lessons that you can learn just from listening to their stories and words of wisdom. Even if it doesn’t feel like a life lesson, a lot can be taken from what you talk about. Chances are, your GBF has a different point of view than you do, simply based on the fact that they were born in a different time. They can provide insight on situations that you were sure you knew all about.

Not to mention, some of the stuff your GBF got up to in their younger days provide endless amount of entertainment. Personally, my GBF is pretty awesome. She’s got tons of stories from growing up on the farm, about being a feminist, and about camping and hiking. I’ve learned some great tips and tricks from her. And she still does a ton of the stuff she did when she was younger, even in her 80’s!

And not all the benefits of having a GBF go to you. You, by being a friend to an older person, provide companionship and a change of pace for them. A lot of times, people who are older, aren’t able to socialize as much as they once did (*this is not a rule, just a general statement). Your company is something that both of you can look forward to.

I know that hanging out with older people might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But I really really strongly suggest that you give it a try. You never know what you might learn.