>I think this is a better thread title.
>
>Apparently, I have to wait 17 years before I can bring in any real wisdom to this forum.

No, I don't think that's true at all.

I *do* think that people's views change over time...as "wisdom" is acquired. And those views change in a predictable fashion, too, as people go through the different stages of life.

And it's through good discussions, like these, that people of ALL ages acquire wisdom. And yes, I learn a lot from people younger than me as well as my peers and my elders.

Yes, some rules about ages are *very* arbitrary. I'm about to wage a battle that two girls in my Girl Scout troop ought to be able to take Program Aide training with the rest of their troop; it's a national rule that you must have completed sixth grade. Well, these girls will be *three weeks* away from completing sixth grade (the end-of-grade tests will have been completed, and all teaching effectively stops after that). I was told "they aren't mature enough" by the director, who's never met these kids. Frankly, they are far more mature than several of the seventh graders that I'm sending, and they are more mature than some of the ninth graders that presented a GS program not long ago. OK, so this example's splitting hairs, but my 12 year old thinks it's VERY unfair (so do I). (Why couldn't they schedule the training for three weeks later???)

Another example--you can die for your country but you can't drink a beer. Terribly arbitrary.

Is 35 the all-knowing magic age of attaining enough wisdom? Nope...I'm living proof. I need another decade before I consider myself with enough wisdom to do important things (lead the country, head up a large company, etc.). The guy who lives across the street from me is over 50 (don't know his exact age). I wouldn't trust him to take care of my plants, let alone accept a position of leadership of ANYONE, regardless of age.

I did work for a guy who was 30 (at the time), and I'd think he'd have the wisdom to run the country--but he doesn't have the inclination (he's CEO-bound). He's quite an exception, and one of the best managers I've ever worked for. From what I've read, Shane Battier (a Duke Basketball player who is up for Player of the Year) could probably lead the country in a few years. I've only briefly met him, but he has a presence, personality, and intensity of a much older and wiser person. An amazing kid.

Yes, there are *plenty* of exceptions. But is 35 the magic number? Nope. Mike, you've got a lot of wisdom to impart to this forum. I can't wait to see you in another 10 years!

(Gee, I guess I went on a little rant--I'll get off my soapbox, now! <G>)

- della