Recently I obtained a copy of "The Myth of the Millenial", by Theodore and Chelsey Doering, church planters outside of Austin, Texas. As millenials themselves, they take a look at what is often though of millenials by other generations, and then dive into why so many of those generalizations and stereotypes may be true, as well as how these stereotypes are often found in other generations. They also then bring very helpful suggestions in how these different generations can lovingly deal with one another, especially with the Gospel message being at the heart of what needs to be communicated.
Essentially, I would summarize what the Doerings say in just a couple of phrases. The first phrase would be to "respectfully listen." Listen to hear what the other person is saying, whether Millenial, Gen-X-er, Boomer, or others. Listen, not to make your next point, but to hear what they are saying. Listen, but as you listen, listen respectfully. Don't automatically negate what they say by responding with stereotypes. Show respect that they have lived their life, and that life has created questions and experiences that have impacted who they are, what their struggles are, and how the Gospel message can impact them.
The other phrase that I would use to summarize the book would be "apprenticeship", or "be a mentor." Yes, that phrase can go both ways, as we never get too old to keep learning. There are many things that the older generations can pass along to the younger, but it proves largely beneficial to do so in the context of a developing relationship. Starting out by simply making efforts to get to know one another is a huge step toward being able to pass along what you have learned. Also, as part of that, be willing to learn from what the younger generations have learned, from their experiences. They also have much that they have done and experienced that can be of benefit to the older generations. Ted and Chelsey bring these points out repeatedly throughout the book.
Overall, one of my best takeaways from the book is to have an intentional focus on developing relationships, no matter what generation. This is just as important for older generations as it is for younger generations. It is in the context of relationships that deep, meaningful conversations can take place. We often place a higher priority on what people say to us when they have taken the effort to get to know us better. We are often more able to hear the hard truths that they bring when we know they care about us, and want to maintain the relationship, and are looking out for our good. The beginning of that relationship is often accomplished through respectful listening, which can lead to being a mentor to each other. All in service to our Lord Jesus, and His message of good news.
I recommend this book highly, especially if you have a desire to connect with other generations, especially those younger than you.
Essentially, I would summarize what the Doerings say in just a couple of phrases. The first phrase would be to "respectfully listen." Listen to hear what the other person is saying, whether Millenial, Gen-X-er, Boomer, or others. Listen, not to make your next point, but to hear what they are saying. Listen, but as you listen, listen respectfully. Don't automatically negate what they say by responding with stereotypes. Show respect that they have lived their life, and that life has created questions and experiences that have impacted who they are, what their struggles are, and how the Gospel message can impact them.
The other phrase that I would use to summarize the book would be "apprenticeship", or "be a mentor." Yes, that phrase can go both ways, as we never get too old to keep learning. There are many things that the older generations can pass along to the younger, but it proves largely beneficial to do so in the context of a developing relationship. Starting out by simply making efforts to get to know one another is a huge step toward being able to pass along what you have learned. Also, as part of that, be willing to learn from what the younger generations have learned, from their experiences. They also have much that they have done and experienced that can be of benefit to the older generations. Ted and Chelsey bring these points out repeatedly throughout the book.
Overall, one of my best takeaways from the book is to have an intentional focus on developing relationships, no matter what generation. This is just as important for older generations as it is for younger generations. It is in the context of relationships that deep, meaningful conversations can take place. We often place a higher priority on what people say to us when they have taken the effort to get to know us better. We are often more able to hear the hard truths that they bring when we know they care about us, and want to maintain the relationship, and are looking out for our good. The beginning of that relationship is often accomplished through respectful listening, which can lead to being a mentor to each other. All in service to our Lord Jesus, and His message of good news.
I recommend this book highly, especially if you have a desire to connect with other generations, especially those younger than you.
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