They say that from the mouths of babes comes wisdom, but I tend to disagree. Some of the best advice and life lessons can be learned not from those who are younger, but from older generations.

I was very interested to learn about Grand Blanc Community Schools’ new program aimed at bridging the gap between elementary students and senior citizens. While the program’s goal is to help seniors feel “valued,” I feel that the real benefit from the project is not for the seniors, but for the students.

When retired veterinarian Dorothy Segal, 92, visited McGrath Elementary for the program’s launch, I heard that she shared her life story with the students. Although I didn’t hear her message, I can imagine the students’ reactions were much like mine when I listened to stories from my grandpa.

Born in 1910, he lived the history that I can only read about: his family owning one of the first cars; living through the Depression and Dust Bowl in Oklahoma; hopping boxcars to pick cotton; and watching the TV as Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. He lived such a rich and full life, and I felt so special and grateful to hear his stories and learn life’s lessons from him.

My only hope is that these students will take away these audible treasures from the program, much like I took away my own treasures from my grandpa.

We can and should learn so much from the older generations ... and never forget that.

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