"Age was respected among his people, but achievement was revered. As the elders said, if a child washed his hands he could eat with kings"

Simply put, the quote emphasizes that while age naturally brings respect, it's one's achievements that truly earn admiration. In other words, respect for age is given, but reverence for accomplishments is earned. There's an old saying among the elders that if a child demonstrates capability and cleanliness, they can dine with royalty (metaphorically speaking). It’s all about merit over mere years lived.

Now, to give you a bit of context, the quote comes from Chinua Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart," which explores the life of Okonkwo, a prominent figure in his Igbo village. Achebe’s narrative delves deep into the traditional values of Igbo society, where age was indeed honored, yet achievements, especially those demonstrating one’s strength, skill, or wisdom, were held in even higher regard. This particular saying highlights that success isn't confined to the elderly; even the young can rise to prominence through their deeds.

Imagine this: a young tech entrepreneur today, in their early twenties, who starts a groundbreaking company. Despite their youth, they've built something remarkable—earning a seat at the table with industry giants and seasoned veterans. Think about Mark Zuckerberg—he was a college dropout in his early twenties when he founded Facebook. Despite his youth, his achievement was monumental, allowing him to mingle with, and be taken seriously by, the titans of the tech world. His story perfectly embodies the essence of the quote.

So how can you apply this wisdom? First, recognize that while experience is valuable, what you do with your time matters even more. Focus on developing your skills, continually learning, and seizing opportunities to demonstrate your abilities. Don’t be deterred by your age or inexperience. Instead, let your achievements speak for you. Work hard, stay disciplined, and never shy away from challenges. Remember, even if you're young, you can still “wash your hands” and earn your place among the greats.

Let me paint a scenario for you. Imagine a young woman named Sarah, fresh out of college, entering the competitive world of graphic design. She's passionate and talented but worried about her lack of experience compared to her older colleagues. Instead of feeling intimidated, Sarah decides to pour her heart into every project, staying late to refine her designs and coming up with innovative ideas that impress her clients. Over time, her portfolio grows, showcasing her impressive work. Clients start requesting her by name, and soon enough, she's invited to be a guest speaker at a major design conference, sharing the stage with well-established figures in the industry. By consistently delivering high-quality work and proving her talent, Sarah earns her place among the best, despite her young age.

In essence, the quote reminds us that respect for age is inherent, but true admiration is awarded to those who achieve greatness. So, whether you’re young or old, focus on what you can accomplish. Show the world what you’re capable of, and you’ll find yourself dining with kings—or at least the modern-day equivalent.