In my first post, I talked a little about how we show our honor and respect to our elders. Though what I mentioned in my previous post was undoubtedly right, I think it is not the only way to show respect; and indeed, it might have its shortcomings as well. I believe the American shave their own way of showing respect to their elders. Unfortunately, the movies and mass media have been portraying a dark picture of how elders are treated by the young. I came from my country with that gloomy picture in my mind. However, it turned out what was conveyed through movies and media are exaggerated to a great extent.
While I was sitting in the terminal of Frankfort Airport, I had my first chance to observe people; and from the accent with witch they spoke, I knew they were form the United States. An old woman and her teenager son sat in front of me. They talked almost all the time; the son went to a close cafeteria and brought them breakfast. When it was announced that our next flight to Houston would take off soon, he carried his bag and his mother's as well. All of the time, he spoke so politely with his mother. I did not notice the slightest hint that this son was bothered by his mother presence.
This incident, in particular, began to erase the old melancholy picture and to draw another cheerful one. I arrived in Houston; and there was a long line of people waiting to get through the Customs. The elders were given special care at the air port by every single employee, no matter what his job was. Since my arrival, I have had a different impression of how elders are respected. The picture has become much more optimistic.
Indeed, you have noticed exceptional examples. Western countries are having some difficulties with elderly; for instance, there are many old people in elderly houses instead of being with their families, which seems to be bizarre for our cultures.
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