How does one attain wisdom? It is obviously a most important element to individual and collective success. It is also painfully obvious of its lack in the "House Divided" mentality so evident today.
So, I pose the question again...
How does one attain wisdom? (pause to reflect on that)
According to Confucius, who I believe will be widely accepted as an expert on this subject, had the following suggestion. I will break it down into its three elements, or three methods as Confucius said:
REFLECTION
"First by reflection, which is noblest." Why is reflection the noblest way to attain wisdom? Is it because deep down in our soul, or human consciousness if you prefer, the answers lye hidden in a mystic pool ready to be hooked and pulled to the surface? Is it simply in the "taking time" that we gain wisdom by not acting or reacting negatively? How often do you reflect? What is reflection for you? How do you reflect?
IMITATION
"Second, by imitation, which is easiest." Why is imitation easiest? If you imitate a thought do you become that thought? If I'm sad but decide to imitate being happy, do I become happy? Is it like imitating the answers on an exam from the genius sitting across from you in class...or is that cheating? Is imitating life actually cheating life? How do you imitate? Who do you imitate? Why do you imitate?
EXPERIENCE
"Third, by experience, which is the bitterest." Ah, the good ole' School of Hard Knocks. Nothing gives you wisdom quicker and more painfully than learning from your mistakes, which in effect is experience. Granted, you can learn from the experience of success...but the really good experiences are the bitterest. I call them the Post Its of the Soul...Battle Scars! Why is experience the bitterest? What has been your bitterest experience that has brought you into the light of Wisdom?
For me, I will go and reflect, then imitate my vision and gain experience from Endeavoring to Engage with myself and the world and people around me.
So, there you have it class, your homework for this Sunday. Class dismissed. You must post your answers in the comments to pass.
Sir Hook the Professor of Wisdom of Warrick
