For your consideration:
“The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.”
– Muhammad Ali
“The only true wisdom is knowing you know nothing.”
– Socrates
Now in my sixties, I often reflect upon the knowledge I have retained, my life experiences – my successes and failures, and the mistakes I have made, wondering how it all fits together. What have I really learned? What has my life up to this moment really taught me? Am I gaining in wisdom or making the same mistakes I’ve made consistently throughout my life?
Wisdom can be defined as the ability to think and act based on knowledge, life experiences, self-awareness, common sense, and insight into the world. It involves making sound decisions and exercising good judgment, an area I personally strive to improve. Now as I grow older, I attempt to focus more on managing complex situations, especially within my family dynamics, and offering thoughtful, considerate advice. This requires actively listening, a skill that is critical in all situations, and only providing my opinion when asked. I also continue to make a conscious effort to learn from every mistake.
For me, wisdom is also deeply connected to my faith. I pray for God’s wisdom, asking for help in being more self-aware, compassionate, and developing a sense of purpose that exceeds simply obtaining material things. Part of this process is the recognition that I am not there yet, there is so much more I need to learn, about myself and my life’s purpose. But I know I am a better person today than I was yesterday, and perhaps that is the beginning of wisdom.
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