Bridging Time.

"Intergenerational friendships are the threads that weave together the fabric of our society, connecting us across the boundaries of time and age." - Michelle Obama

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Dear Investors & Friends:

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Welcome to this week’s SundayReads.

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As a financial advisor, I often find myself navigating through the intricacies of investment portfolios and financial goals. Amidst the numbers and charts, there's a profound bond of intergenerational friendships, surpassing age barriers and societal norms.

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It was a simple question from Karishma, my daughter's friend, that sparked a newfound connection between us. She inquired about my mother's well-being, understanding the struggles of dealing with a loved one battling mental health issues, as her own father faced similar challenges. In that moment, a small thread of friendship began to weave itself between us, anchored by shared experiences and empathy.

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This thread of connection reminded me of the poignant tale depicted in the movie "Wazir," where Amitabh Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar's characters, bound by grief and fate, form an unlikely friendship. Despite their differences in age and background, they unite to face life's challenges together, highlighting the impact of intergenerational bonds.

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In my journey as a member of BNI, I've witnessed firsthand the power of intergenerational friendships within our diverse group of women. Age knows no bounds as we come together, ranging from 28 to 58 years old, forging deep connections beyond professional networking. Through our monthly lunches and shared experiences, we've cultivated a supportive community where wisdom is exchanged, and friendships flourish.

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What makes these friendships so special?

It's the ability to embrace differences and learn from each other. Older friends bring a wealth of life experience and knowledge, while younger friends offer fresh perspectives and technological savvy. This dynamic exchange creates a symbiotic relationship where both parties feel valued and supported.

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Moreover, these intergenerational friendships are a source of joy and laughter. Sharing jokes, anecdotes, and moments of levity brings a sense of camaraderie and warmth, transcending generational divides. As one friend shared, the laughter shared with her older friends made them feel ageless and connected on a deeper level.

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Beyond personal fulfillment, these friendships serve as vital networks of support. Older friends provide bridges to resources and connections that peers may not offer, enriching each other's lives in meaningful ways. Additionally, they challenge ageism by fostering understanding and empathy across generations, combating stereotypes and prejudice.

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Reflecting on my own experiences, I've witnessed the transformative power of intergenerational friendships in my mother's life. At 75 years young, she participates in yoga classes with individuals half her age, exchanging energy and perspective with her younger counterparts. These interactions invigorate her spirit and offer a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world.

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As Shasta Nelson aptly puts it in her book Frientimacy, a friendship is defined by positivity, consistency, and vulnerability, not age. Intergenerational friendships embody these principles, creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued irrespective of their age.

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To conclude, I invite you to ponder: Do you have such friendships? What do you believe people from different generations gain from knowing each other as friends? How often do you engage with individuals of different age groups? Embrace the magic of intergenerational friendships, for in bridging generations, we discover the beauty of human connection beyond age barriers.

Do share your experience.

Until the next week, Ciao.

Warm regards

Kavita Bothra

Helping you think thoughts you may not have thought before.