By Michael Foster-Sanders/campus editor
For the past two weeks, rappers Kodak Black and T.I. have been in a war of words over the perceived disrespect of Lauren London, longtime partner of deceased rapper Nipsey Hussle.
A video surfaced of Kodak Black saying London was now a widow, and he would be there to console her.
However, T.I. took offense and went to social media with a video chastising Kodak Black telling him to apologize because he was out of line.
Kodak Black did give an insincere apology to London saying he didn’t say anything disrespectful and gave a rebuttal to T.I. letting him know not to talk down to him like he was a child.
While there was some disrespect, I totally agree with Kodak Black and how it could’ve been handled better since T.I. is an elder to these younger artists. This is not only an issue in hip-hop it’s an issue in everyday life with younger versus older generations.
As an elder, you’re are suppose to conduct yourself in the manner of a leader: think before acting, de-escalate situations and correct people without belittling them.
Communication and understanding is a big thing that elders have to learn to master to achieve respect when bridging the gap with younger generations.
They may do things that older generations may not agree with, but trying to understand where they’re coming from is best.
The saying of teaching an old dog new tricks is wrong. Accepting that new ways will be adopted and invented is a part of getting older and should be welcomed. This is as long as it’s not taking away from core values.
To the youth, don’t dismiss when an older person tries to mentor you. They have been down that path before, they have made the mistakes already.
All elders want is to prevent the youth from making the same mistakes.
Adapt, listen and learn, or become extinct like the Dodo bird.
