What do we mean by words of wisdom?
We speak of words of wisdom and then sometimes of cliches, almost in the same breath. Are they simply sayings posted on Facebook, re-tweeted on Twitter, added to pretty pictures, posters on teenagers walls? Do we even take them to heart and understand their true meaning or are words of wisdom just another part of our consumer lives? Should not wisdom be pondered, thought about, acted upon?
Wisdom has a variety of meanings, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/wisdom
1. The ability to discern or judge what is true, right, or lasting; insight.
2. Common sense; good judgment
It is a characteristic of wisdom not to do desperate things
3. The sum of learning through the ages; knowledge. Wise teachings of the ancient sages
In those homely sayings was couched the collective wisdom of generations.
Words of Wisdom not direct advice
Ever been told by a parent, a colleague, a friend to do something, “for your own good” and immediately experienced resistance to the suggestion? Why is it that well meaning advice can make us want to do the exact opposite? Is it because we resist the idea that somebody can “tell” us how to live our life, even when we can actually see the wisdom of what they are saying? Or is it because our negative inner voice dismisses their views as criticism?
How then do we to see words of wisdom as positive? It is usually because we embrace the emotion behind the words, for ourselves. It resonates with us and when the wisdom comes from a stranger it seems easier to take heed. Words of wisdom connect with us, they trigger that light bulb moment and we suddenly see clearly. It is as if the person speaking/writing the words has lived a part of our life. Words are all the more powerful when they feel like something we have experienced.
Learning from mistakes…ours and others’
Most words of wisdom deal with following the right path, avoiding life’s mistakes. It is very difficult, as a parent for example, to protect your children, or your friends from making mistakes. You want to, and you offer advice but all too often they ignore you! It seems to be part of the human condition that we have to learn the hard way, making our own mistakes. That does not mean that we cannot tap into the collective wisdom of the world around us- we just have to learn how.
Interestingly we are less resistant to advice from people slightly more removed from us than family. Teachers, coaches, consultants, wise people with experience- their words of wisdom are received positively. Human beings are a sociable lot, they generally work better within groups and learn well from each other- given the right environment.
No (wo)man is an island - words of wisdom are for the benefit of all
Collective wisdom is the accumulated knowledge of the ages; of groups of people willing to share what life has taught them- and it is powerful! If we isolate ourselves from the world around us we are unable to tap into this wonderful source - the universe itself is brimming with wisdom to be shared. Every religion honors its teachers- the sharing of knowledge and truth is an integral part of faith. Over the centuries as our families have become smaller and at the same time more scattered- much of the traditional sharing of knowledge through generations has been lost.
Thankfully, this change is recognized by many and steps are being taken to reverse that loss of knowledge. More and more change-makers, philosophers, metaphysicians, spiritual and thought leaders are reaching out to all to share their words of wisdom. The internet allows us to access much of this- but- it does not always allow us to embed that knowledge.
In my coaching and through my teachings I emphasize the need to repeat, practice and deepen your learning as you make changes in your life. Simply reading words of wisdom is only the first step. The words can open your eyes, but you make real change by putting them into practice.
Some of my favorite words of wisdom…
are on the pictures throughout this article and below
There is an exciting new project based upon sharing collective wisdom, changing lives one story at a time. It is called the “5 Pieces of Advice” project and you can find out about it below…
If you could give your younger self or your child 5 pieces of advice- what would they be? What words of wisdom would you share with the world?
Let me know in the comments below!
Lorane, this was a beautiful post. You provide so much great information in all of your posts. I also love the pictures with the quotes on it!!!!!!!