Younger people have a reputation of ignoring what older generations have to say. I am 18, about to turn 19, and I am fully aware that people older than me have so much to teach me. They are great sources of knowledge and information. Our parents, grandparents and others have all lived through the challenges we are facing. They have so much to teach us. Our situations may not exactly be something they experienced, but they have successfully navigated life long much longer than we have so that at least counts for something.

Ignoring disagreements in political views, music taste or our generation's attachment to our smartphones, previous generations know exactly how to survive growing up. They know tons about dating, applying for jobs, networking and surviving stress. All of that knowledge they have is from personal experience, which makes it even better!

Also, listening to older generations is one of the best experiences. They have the most incredible stories. I volunteered at a nursing and rehab center for a while, and it was amazing interacting with so many incredible people with such amazing backgrounds. If nothing else, talk to your parents and grandparents about your family history and where you come from.

If you ever feel like questioning their credibility, just remember that you only get to live the life you do because of them. They helped get you where you are today. We have so much to learn from those that came before. We get so much from them including: traditions, recipes, how to get out stains, tips to firing a gun, and so much more. They spent their entire lives making mistakes to learn the best way. Instead of wasting time making the same mistakes, we should learn from them.

My family has taught me so much that make living easier, and I still have so much left to learn. There will always be someone who has gone through what you are struggling with, and they can help you. Prior generations are full of life experience that we can learn. Let them show you their tricks. They have the best life hacks.

Let us learn from them so that we can make a difference instead of making old mistakes.

Stay positive.