I was recently going through some of my old writings, reflections I wrote almost eight years ago now. When I re-read them, there was something there, even in those early ones. But there has been a lot of life lived since then. A lot of wisdom gained through struggles, trials, and hardship. And through victories and successes too.
As I’ve grown in wisdom — bit by bit — I’ve come to appreciate more the people around me who I think are truly wise. Older generations, I’m looking at you.
Speaking on behalf of folks my age: I don’t think we always recognize wisdom when we see it. Our culture has convinced itself that getting old is the worst thing that can happen to you. That slowing down, having wrinkles, no longer being at the top of your game — that’s failure.
But I’ve come to believe the opposite. It’s in those years that a person has the greatest potential influence. There is so much left to give from a life well lived, from wisdom that took decades to earn.
We’d do well to pay attention.
Let us pray. Lord, grant us wisdom and the humility to seek it from those who have walked further than we have. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Keep fighting the good fight. Our Lady of Victory, pray for us.
