Where does Wisdom come from…?
Where does wisdom come from…?
It often comes from looking back, from reflecting, from adding perspective and recognizing the context
It can come from being kindly critical to yourself and your actions.
Looking at what went wrong and why
What could have gone better and how
Uncovering the Ah-Ha for yourself in a visceral way so that it is not soon forgotten
It requires us to let go of being “right”. To let go of our protected self-image and accepting we may have erred.
Wisdom comes from being an objectively open observer of the situation
And, wisdom comes from having been there before so that you recognize the signs, so that you can be kind towards others who may not have had the benefit of your previous experience.
Wisdom comes from understanding that this moment may not matter as much in the future or, that it may matter much more that you initially knew.
Wisdom can be quiet but speak volumes
Wisdom can be shared or saved
Wisdom is an intentional practice of learning
It can look like savvy insight, tactful caution, or mature thoughtfulness
It can protect, guide, circumvent or enlighten
It can be clever, logical or shrewd
But it must be attended to, it requires contemplation and demands consideration
It may require perception, common sense, and gumption
But it does require you
I can share my wisdom, but you have not earned it yet
Wisdom requires internal focus, active application, and vigilance
But once you have earned it, it is yours and it will then require intentional action to lose it
Knowledge may be Power, but Wisdom is Freedom, free from repeating mistakes
Knowledge is knowing, Wisdom is Understanding
“Knowledge is knowing what to say. Wisdom is knowing when to say it.” – Unknown (Wise) Author
Photo: Jean Van Der Meulen