It feels like we are constantly losing the icons, mentors, and legends we look up to, leaving many of us unsure of what to do next. This episode explores the tension of these losses and offers a practical guide on how the older generation can pass down wisdom while the younger generation steps up to pick up the mantle.

Blog Version

Over the last few years, it seems like many icons and legends have been passing away. In our personal lives, many of us are also losing the heroes and mentors we’ve looked up to for years. At Geek Devotions, we want to address the tension of these losses and discuss what needs to happen next for both the older and younger generations.

Remembering the Giants

In the last few years, we’ve lost several influential figures who left lasting legacies. In the world of geek culture, we’ve lost legends like Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball Z; prolific actors Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa; and Val Kilmer, and so many others. Even as this episode was being recorded, we received news of the passing of the legendary Chuck Norris.

Closer to home, Geek Devotions has felt these losses personally. We remember Michael Manacci, a member of our team who passed away last year. We also honor David Pierce, a kind and generous local businessman who was intrinsically part of this ministry. David not only encouraged us with prayers but also provided the professional-grade microphone we use today because he believed in our mission.

A Message to the Older Generation: You’re Not Done

To the older generation: God is not finished with you yet. There is still work for you to do and people whom only you can reach and inspire. We encourage you to be intentional about passing your wisdom on to those coming up behind you.

In Psalm 71:18, the Psalmist writes:

“So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come”.

Finishing well involves passing the torch you’ve carried for decades. Younger people need your wisdom to navigate the holes you’ve already fallen into. Even if they have to learn through their own mistakes, they need you there with grace and love to help them back up.

A Message to the Younger Generation: Step Up

To the younger generation: it is time to step up. Many of the movers and shakers who have led the way are passing on, and the skills, wisdom, and inspiration they invested in you must now be put to use.

You are called to pick up the mantle and run with it. While no mentor is perfect and everyone has flaws, you must honor the grace and wisdom they did pass down. You may feel “too young,” but even at 20, there is a generation behind you that needs your leadership and guidance.

The Floor and the Ceiling

The goal of this generational transition is growth. We should be standing on the shoulders of the giants who came before us. As the saying goes: “The ceiling of the previous generation should be the floor of the next”.

We must be intentional about both recognizing the goodness and kindness left by those like David Pierce and simultaneously raising up the next group of leaders. This is how we continue to grow as society, as men and women of God.