Wisdom

"In strictness of language," says Paley, " there is a difference between knowledge and wisdom; wisdom always supposing action, and action directed by it."

"Knowledge and wisdom, far from being one, Have ofttimes no connection. Knowledge dwells In heads replete with thoughts of other men; Wisdom, in minds attentive to their own. Knowledge, a rude, unprofitable mass, The mere materials with which wisdom builds, Till smoothed, and squared, and fitted to its place, Does but encumber whom it seems to enrich. Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much; Wisdom is humble that he knows no more." Cowper.


We live in a world where knowledge is honored and wisdom is often ignored for the simple fact it comes with no letters after its name.
I would love to know the bits of wisdom gained through the life experiences of my ancestors, not the facts of their life. I would love to have a book with the wisdoms of my mother, my grandmother and great grandmother. I love that I have things they created with their hands, pieces of knitting, quilting etc but it was their mind that made them what they were, not the products of their hands. Their souls were not held in their crafts, but in their hearts and minds.
There are so many "how to" books available and many old ones are sought out in hopes we learn the skills of days gone by, but what wisdom has been lost because no one ever thought to write down what we wisdom was gained by life itself ?
What are you sharing more of ? How to do, or how to live, complete with the joy and gratitude of the lessons you have learned ? Both are important, both should be shared.
Solomon, Sulayman, was asked for whatever he wanted and he wanted wisdom. He was wise to begin with for choosing wisdom and is still talked about today, for his choice.
Think about what wisdom you have gained through life and perhaps write them down for your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews or just simply for yourself to see what you have learned that is far beyond knowledge.