The two are not interchangeable. In fact, they are separate and distinct.
Intelligence, can be acquired. Through reading, observing, memory and experience we can acquire higher levels of intelligence. But, does this information make us more wise, or simply more learned?
Some of the smartest people I know, have very modest education. But, they have been blessed with wisdom. Wisdom is the power to observe, record, discern and make judgements of situations that are balanced, fair and reasonable.
Wisdom, is to see life through the prism of balance, versus the ignorance of intolerance.
I have no issue with intelligence, it is important. But, It CAN be acquired. Wisdom cannot..it is a gift. Usually bestowed on the patient, methodical thinker.
A person can memorize the periodic table of elements. They can memorize times tables. They can study a rat running around a maze....and write a report on it. But can they dissect what their fellow researcher really is thinking? Can they formulate their own opinion, independent of outside influences?
Wise..is to be able to understand what others are trying to communicate, because you understand the world yourself. This, requires you to think..independently and not rely on the ideas or pre-conceived knowledge of others.
Most of you have that "wise old Aunt or Uncle" that many in the family go to for advice. More times than not, they dispense that wisdom from a rocking chair. The chair, gives them time to think and keeps the balance. The pendulum...the motion, it finds the middle.
Education doesn't make you wise..anymore than holding a stick in your hand makes you a tree.
As you read this, I summarize with this observation....
If you're wise, you're smiling.
If you're intelligent, you're sneering.
Case proven.
No comments:
Post a Comment