As we get older, we have a social obligation to help guide and nuture the lives of younger ppl in any way possible. Idc what ppl say. You don't have to be a mentor, but you should always be mindful your status as an elder in the lives of children.
Every morning at 8:30, my coworker walks into the office looking put together. Her hair is neat, she smiles at everyone, and she always seems calm and organized. One evening, I found out there was much more going on in her life than anyone knew. I had forgotten my laptop charger at work and went back to get it. On my way down the stairs, I saw her sitting alone on the steps, crying so hard she could barely breathe.
Later, I learned that she takes care of her younger brother, who is seriously ill, and her mother, who is starting to suffer from dementia. After work, she spends her evenings giving medications, helping them move around, handling appointments, and worrying about medical bills. At work, she isn't pretending to be happy. The office is simply the one place where she can be more than a caregiver. For a few hours each day, she gets to be herself.
That moment reminded me that we never really know what someone else is going through. The people who seem the strongest and most capable are often carrying burdens we can't see. So be kind to people. Everyone is fighting battles you may know nothing about.