By Richard Odusanya
Welcome on board WT-2025. As we journey through this year 2025, may we all be blessed with the wisdom that is sufficient and similar to that of King Solomon to navigate its twists and turns. First, Let’s understand what wisdom is. Wisdom is the ability to make a good decision or judgement based on the knowledge, experience and understanding. In addition, wisdom can’t be given and is only grudgingly learned as exemplified by some of our offsprings.
Furthermore, wisdom is the culmination of experience, knowledge, and good judgment. Knowledge can be learned and judgement is a function of intelligence and forethought but experience must be gained first hand. Wikipedia defines wisdom as “Wisdom or sapience is the ability to think and act using knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense, and insight, especially in a mature or utilitarian manner”. So basically, the road of excess represents information, the more information you’ll have the closest you’ll get to the place of Wisdom. It’s sort of like Jesus’s parable of the talents. You are responsible to do well with what you are given. Ironically, life is full of twists and turns – nonetheless, wisdom comes from experience and self-reflection.
Essentially, wisdom is when you stop thinking about yourself solely and more so as “Us.” Mathew 7:7–8 “Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: 8 For everyone that asks receives, and he that seeks shall find.” To me, wisdom is when you can think clearly and act accordingly. You do not act on emotions but rather rationalize the outcome you want and works toward it.
Similarly, the wise man Solomon wrote, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord” (Prov. 18:22). A good marriage is a great blessing and is the foundation of a healthy, happy home. Too many people take their marriage for granted. This is some parts of wisdom for marriage. It is important to embody empathy, compassion, love, kindness, humility, and understanding towards one another, however, doing so comes with experience and faith. Each partner develops mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. In marriage, two individuals become a team by growing together.
Following from the above, a wise person knows that he does not know everything. He uses this as an opportunity to learn, making him all the more wise. Therefore, I’d like to share with my esteemed readers one of the feedback that I received some days back on the subject of WISDOM:
“Oga Richard, again Happy New Year; and thanks for sharing (this) your reflection which offers a thoughtful and insightful perspective on the distinction between wisdom and knowledge, and it highlights the importance of prioritizing wisdom in the coming year.
I have a few comments on your thoughts:
1) Wisdom vs. Knowledge:
You’re absolutely right that wisdom and knowledge are not the same. While knowledge is about gathering facts, information, and understanding specific subjects, wisdom is about how to apply that knowledge effectively and seeing the bigger picture. Wisdom often involves making sound judgments based on experience, understanding, and a deep awareness of life’s complexities.
2) Reinventing the Wheel:
Your mention of wisdom coming from experience, often referred to as “reinventing the wheel,” is an interesting point. While it’s true that wisdom can be learned through personal trial and error, it’s also valuable to learn from others’ experiences, which can help avoid unnecessary mistakes and accelerate personal growth. In many ways, seeking wisdom from others’ insights helps us expand our own understanding and gain wisdom more efficiently.
3) Insight and Connection:
The idea that wisdom is connected to deeper insight—seeing everything in a more profound way—is very powerful. Wisdom is about connecting with experiences at a deeper emotional and intellectual level, not just understanding them at face value. This deeper connection can lead to greater empathy, compassion, and personal growth, allowing us to make better choices and contribute positively to the lives of others.
4) Prioritizing Wisdom:
Your call to prioritize wisdom in 2025 is both timely and essential. In a world filled with overwhelming amounts of information, wisdom becomes increasingly important in helping us navigate complex situations and make decisions that are not just informed, but also thoughtful, balanced, and compassionate. Wisdom can guide us through difficult decisions, personal challenges, and help us make a lasting positive impact on the world.
5) The Book of Wisdom:
The reference to the Wisdom of Solomon from the biblical tradition adds a spiritual and philosophical dimension to your point. The Book of Wisdom emphasizes the pursuit of wisdom as a divine gift that offers profound understanding of life, the world, and our purpose. It’s a reminder that wisdom is not just intellectual but also has a spiritual and moral component that guides us toward a better, more ethical life.
To conclude, your reflection beautifully encapsulates the importance of seeking and prioritizing wisdom as we enter 2025. Wisdom not only enriches our lives personally but also has the potential to transform our communities and the world at large, if we approach it with humility, empathy, and openness. May this new year be one of growth, learning, and deepening wisdom for all of us.”
In conclusion, I like to share with you, the profound words of Aristotle, an Ancient Greek philosopher and polymath. Yes, Aristotle said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom”. This quote suggests that understanding your own strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs is essential for gaining wisdom and living a fulfilling life. Knowing thyself is a dynamic, life long process. Yes, that is how the wisdom begins.
Finally, as a people in a nation, facing difficult times, it can be helpful to focus on gratitude, surround oneself with supportive people, and engage in activities that bring us joy. Personally, during tough times, I find solace in practicing mindfulness and self-care. Taking time for myself, whether it’s through meditation, exercise, or pursuing hobbies, helps me stay positive. Remember, it’s important to be kind to yourself and seek support when needed.
Richard Odusanya
