A Friendship Beyond Generations

When Pati Gosnell, 50, needs fashion advice, she turns to her good friend and employee, Alicia Bugg, 24. Despite the age gap, their friendship flourishes on equal terms.

“We’re on equal footing as far as our friendship,” says Bugg. “Age doesn’t really factor in. We both give each other advice and ideas on a variety of subjects, like any friends would.”

Gosnell agrees, describing their relationship as one built on shared values and meaningful conversations. “We’ve also learned a great deal from one another,” she says.

Learning Across Generations

Gosnell admits this is her first close friendship with someone significantly younger, and the experience has been eye-opening.

“The last person I expected to learn from was someone half my age,” she says. “Alicia has insight and maturity. She’s open and adaptable.”

Expert Insight

Vivian Clecak, a Laguna Hills counselor, explains that people who embrace friendships with different-aged individuals tend to be open-minded and flexible.

• They avoid stereotypes and welcome diverse life experiences.
• Younger friends bring inspiration and vitality.
• Older friends offer wisdom and serve as role models.

However, Clecak notes that such friendships carry vulnerabilities, such as the possibility of loss due to aging or lifestyle changes.

Roger and Nathan: An Intellectual Connection

Roger Angle, 55, has always had friends of different ages. One of his closest is Nathan Rynn, 70, a physics professor. They meet weekly for lunch, engaging in deep conversations despite their age gap.

“My writing and his research are both solitary, creative pursuits,” says Angle. “I admire his integrity and physical fitness.”

Rynn agrees that their shared perspectives on life and social issues have formed a strong foundation for their friendship. He credits Angle with opening him up to more cross-generational relationships.

“I’ve made other younger friends since meeting Roger, and I’m more open to different lifestyles and viewpoints,” says Rynn.

A Working Relationship Turned Friendship

Bugg began working at Regal Flowers at 18. Over time, she became Gosnell’s right hand, learning floral design and business management, while also teaching her mentor about patience and fashion.

“Alicia keeps her cool under pressure and calms me down. She also helped me update my style,” says Gosnell.

Gosnell, in return, offers life advice on finances and relationships. Bugg appreciates the guidance, knowing it’s rooted in experience.

“Pati gives advice I can trust because she’s been through it,” says Bugg.

Despite the initial work connection, the women believe they would be friends in any circumstance.

“We laugh a lot and bring out the best in each other. Our age difference gives our friendship more depth,” says Gosnell.