Wisdom and Understanding

Today is my mom’s 81^st birthday. If you asked her, she would tell you that she doesn’t feel 81 years old. She would tell you that she still feels like the 16 year old girl she was on the inside. Her theory is that because the soul is eternal, it doesn’t age, and so we don’t feel older. She is what I want to be when I am 81 years old. She is active and adventurous, and learning new things all the time. She is also wise.

Is not wisdom found among the aged?

Does not long life bring understanding? Job 12:12

Our culture worships youth. Watch TV for any length of time and you will see advertisements for liposuction, hair dye, or tummy tucks. We strive to extend the experiences of youth as long as possible, working to stay healthy and extend our stamina. A wrinkle at the corner of our mouth or a stray laugh line is reason for panic.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to look attractive or striving to stay healthy. There is something deeply wrong with discounting the value of the wisdom that only comes with living a long life. There is a lot to be said for the understanding that comes from experience.

We don’t have to make every mistake ourselves. We can learn from the experiences of those who made their own, and lived to share them. We can learn from the wisdom of people God has put in our lives.

When was the last time you listened to the stories the older people in your life tell? There is wisdom hiding there. Have you asked the opinion of that elderly aunt, the one who knits doilies and smells like lavender? There may be understanding that you never knew existed. We waste their wisdom when we don’t bother to ask, or when we discount them simply because they are old or seem out of touch. Just because they struggle with their smart phone doesn’t mean they don’t have understanding to offer. They understand complexities and relationships that we may have never learned about.

Happy birthday, Mom.  Thank you. You’ve given me good genes, a good mind, and have lived a life of faith that is an example for me to follow. You live wisdom and understanding, and God has blessed me by putting you in my life. 81 years isn’t enough. I am so thankful that you are healthy, and that we have more time together. You are a gift.