I am often questioned as to why younger people refuse to learn from the mistakes of the ones who have gone before them.  The answer to the question is always the same:  "I wish I knew."  I recently ran across the following:

"Somewhere I got the idea that the seasons of life were neatly defined, like spring, summer, fall, and winter.  But my life refuses to play itself out in four distinct acts.  I'm not an actress able to exit the stage wearing an apron then reenter dressed in purple chiffon, having permanently traded one role for another.  Instead, I often find myself playing different parts.

"As an empty nester, I've moved from leading mother to a supporting role in my children's lives.  But they still need me, on occasion, to put on my apron, cross to center stage, and perform as Mommy for them or their little ones.

"So here's a new metaphor.  For me, life is not a linear progression of time, seasons, or scenes; it's much more like an elevator.  Each year enables me to rise to a new level of maturity.  Reaching floor 51(actually, for me, it's 62) means I have 50(actually, for me, it's 61) years of experience below me when unexpected situations push my buttons.  I can use my experience to operate effectively at many different levels.

"I choose to apply the wisdom I've gained along the way, while opening up my heart to any new encounters that meet me at the elevator doors.  Going up?"

This is from Focus on the Family and was written by Sue Cameron.  I think it is information we can all use.  While I have gained some wisdom which could benefit others, were they to listen, I hope I never get too old to learn from those who have wisdom in areas where I have not yet ventured.

Tags: wisdom, experience, life

Add A Comment