Is it not amazing how mature we get when we are put into a senior position? (•ิ‿•ิ)
I've noticed it when I still had my businesses. If I wanted one of my staff members to "grow up," I would put him in a position where he either had a hug responsibility or was in charge of others.
As for learning, the youth can teach the elderly a thing or two, but they can learn more from the elderly.

Good luck with the contest!
PS: Thank you for the invitation. I have dropped my entry.