“The old protect the young. Then the young protect the old. This is the way.”

Last weekend, my daughter and I enjoyed watching The Mandalorian and Grogu, in particular the deepening relationship between Din Djarin and his adopted 50-year-old toddler.

In the second half of the movie, (minor spoiler) Grogu nurses Din Djarin back to health, and the stoic Mandalorian says: “The old protect the young. Then the young protect the old. This is the way.”

Indeed, those of us in the sandwich generation–adults caring for their children and aging parents–are experiencing both sides of this responsibility daily. But, my own experiences with my mom helped me realize this is not just a burden. There is joy in serving our elders.

As birth rates fall and the world grows older, it’s more important than ever to instill in our young a love and respect for seniors, so that they grow up with a passion to protect the old.

By the way, 4 out of 5 stars but wait for streaming. $34.50 is a lot for two tickets. I remember when a matinee was $3.50 each! Yeah, I’m getting old.