Wisdom is the knowledge of what is true or right coupled with best judgment and action. Wisdom comes from what you have learned in the past. Older generations have been through more life experiences than younger generations, but does not necessarily mean they are full of wisdom, they may be wiser in some circumstances and then sometimes maybe not. Being wise is looking out for things to make sense, it’s not just because somebody is older. Wisdom can come from life experiences, it’s a type of maturity that one develops over time. I do not believe being wise and being older are synonymous. Being intellectual or having experience about a subject is one thing, wisdom comes more from the heart, an internal spiritual alignment. A wise person has gained knowledge and understanding based on life’s past experiences whether it be good or bad. One with wisdom has a knowing.
Socrates said “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
I have always thought that I was a pretty wise girl with a deep understanding of life. As a matter of fact I often heard that I was wise beyond my years. Then I had kids! I found out quickly that I pretty much knew, not a darn thing. The truth is that with age comes experience, and those life experiences may make one wise but not necessarily full of wisdom. Wisdom is when we have a sense of self-worth and inner peace. When we can confidently live in accordance with our conscience and make the best decisions based on our knowledge and understanding without guilt or shame. Wisdom means having and understanding of consequences of all that we say and do. Wisdom brings us in harmony with self and others and we can remain free from conflict.
An often said prayer by many “God grant me the courage to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Wisdom is the knowledge of truth and the understanding to recognize the right course of action and having the will and courage to follow it.
Proverbs 3:13-18
How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding. For its profit is better than the profit of silver, and its gain than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels; and nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who hold her fast.
Wisdom, it does not come easily or naturally. It is easier to follow our less-than-wise impulses however the reward for acting with wisdom is greater. When we give our best effort in everything we do, the payoff in self-esteem and inner peace will compensate us many times over.
Weighdowninthevalley 