cross-posted from: https://wolfballs.com/post/7886
I saw a viral video about a guy who said his town in New Jersey did not enforce prohibition law at all back in the 1900s, with the consequence that he, as a minor, could go in to a bar and get a drink. Interesting thought to consider in the face of unjust legislation today, that there were places in the past that just didn't enforce certain laws thought to be unjust.
What kind of other questions might we ask of elders, to understand some of the past that might help us make good decisions going forward?
"Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it"
sj_zero@lotide.fbxl.net 2 years ago
I spent a lot of time being raised by my grandmother, and no I'm middle aged as well. Based on my experience back then and my experience now as an adult, I think that people want to have the opportunity to tell you their story, and to tell whatever pieces of wisdom they've learned along the way.
I think the key is to just sit down and have a conversation, and to ask questions about the past and how their lives have been. Sincere interest is a good thing. Most people are very happy to talk about themselves.
PureBloodMasculine@wolfballs.com 2 years ago
My grandfather was always reluctant to talk about WWII but I would always stop what I was doing and listen when he opened up. Not sure that there was any real value other than entertainment and the memory of him.
squashkin@wolfballs.com 2 years ago
well I've had genuine conversations before and they seem to be about just life history things which doesn't necessarily have any broader implications in society
Like if I broke my arm when I was biking when I was 7, may be fun to know but is kind of more personal trivia (this didn't happen to me btw)
PureBloodMasculine@wolfballs.com 2 years ago
I think you just have to find those nuggets of wisdom as the conversation goes on naturally.