Does Wisdom Always Come with Older Age?

No question, we have all encountered individuals who, despite their advanced age, seem to have missed out on acquiring significant wisdom. This article aims to unravel the myth that wisdom invariably accompanies older age by examining the multifaceted factors that contribute to wisdom.

Experiences Define Wisdom

During a particularly harrowing day, I witnessed two elderly men, both in their 70s, who were homeless and destitute. The first man had lost his identity and means of livelihood due to a broken back, and his wife had divorced him, leaving him with no children. Instead of succumbing to despair, I engaged him in conversation and, through patience and compassion, convinced him not to take his own life. The second man, also a Vietnam generation and four-time divorcee, led a life in a tent in the woods, relying on social security payments and the occasional kindness of strangers to survive.

Despite their life experiences, these men did not seem to have gained much in terms of survival skills or money management. However, what was striking was how kind and helpful they were, despite their circumstances.

Wisdom is a Choice

Wisdom is not a passive attribute that magically appears with age. It is a conscious decision that one makes every day. Whether you choose to learn from the people around you and through every experience is up to you. My approach is simple: I choose to learn every day from everyone I encounter and in every way possible. Whether it's from news, books, magazines, TV, internet, or personal interactions, the sources are endless.

The Big Myth: Maturity Comes with Age

One of the most pervasive myths in life is that maturity and wisdom stem directly from age. This is simply not true. Age can contribute to wisdom, but it is certainly not the sole determinant.

Factors Influencing Wisdom

Research and personal experiences show that several factors can influence the development of wisdom. Some of these are:

Boiled Life Experiences: Those who have experienced a wide array of life events, whether positive or negative, tend to accumulate a greater reservoir of life knowledge, leading to greater wisdom. Natural Curiosity and Open-Mindedness: People who naturally seek knowledge and are open to different perspectives often lead wiser lives. They are more likely to reflect on their experiences and derive meaningful insights. Educational and Personal Development: Those who actively seek education, personal development, and self-improvement tend to exhibit wisdom more readily.

Is Age Relevant?

While age can play a role in wisdom, it is not a definitive one. If you were not born a gifted genius, then the answer is unequivocally yes. Age provides an additional layer of perspective and life experience, but it is your choices and actions that shape your wisdom.

Whether you seek wisdom or let life pass you by is entirely up to you. It is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth that can begin at any age.