From the archive

You don't owe someone respect just because they're older

I'm not suggesting a rudeness competition or proving your independence to everyone you meet. Sometimes calmly disagreeing is enough. Sometimes you end the conversation. Sometimes you have to account for your dependence and choose a moment when saying no won't leave you homeless. But even then, you don't have to privately accept humiliation as wisdom. You can understand what's happening while you look for a way out. And yes, one day you'll be the older person. I hope by then you'll have something to contribute besides your age. Because “I've been alive longer” is a weak explanation for why someone else should live your way.