My three years as an elder was a disappointment- first surprise that I was even appointed at only 25 years of age and then realization that being appointed had more to do with need (only three elders in that small KH) and I was a darn good public speaker. Boy, do I wish we had the Internet back in the 70's. I can't say what it would be like today for the elders, but it has to be a lot harder today for them to keep the JWkids home on the farm.