We associate foolishness with teenage behavior or adults who never grow up and become the traditional citizen who follow the rules of society. Whatever that means..
Our degrees, accomplishments and platitudes tell us we are wise, and we should be listened to and even admired for our intelligence. I have a PhD or a doctorate; therefore, I must know more than the man sitting on a park bench feeding the pigeons. What could that man possibly know?
He could know why we are foolish. He could know the secret to life. Disregarding someone simply because of their lot in life is a missed opportunity to learn about us and about the world. Chasing our dreams in circles not really knowing whether we are truly happy or just doing what comes next…is that the definition of wisdom?
The Book of Proverbs guides us to understand the difference between wisdom and foolishness. Foolishness is acting according to our whims and the world’s expectations and not listening to God’s truth and his purpose for you.
Our Search for Meaning
It’s so easy to fall into our routines, our desires, and focus on everyone else’s opinion.
What job should I have? Should I stay home and raise my kids? Are fame and fortune the most important things no matter my values? I must have my desires met at all costs is a trap we are told.
Maybe that old man on the bench feeding the pigeons knows about the meaning of life for us all, or maybe he is just as clueless and has not taken action to grow in his purpose in this world. Action is key!
We will never know unless we are open to hearing him and learning from him. Our ability to put aside our egos, and learn, love, and guide one another will allow us to rise above “foolishness” and gain wisdom and purpose.
The way we gain wisdom is through experience and guidance from truly wise people around us. We need to discern God’s voice in the mud that is our inner voice. Seeking His true voice, not our distorted, wounded inner voices that may be telling us stories and lies.
Seek Knowledge
The Book of Proverbs is filled with wisdom, and we should always strive to learn through reading, audiobooks, and podcasts.
Seeking discernment is listening to the right content.
I once heard a speaker at a conference who still impacts me to this day. Maybe I resonated with him because he reminded me of my grandfather.
Recommended Reading
Andy Andrews is an internationally renowned author and speaker who has many golden nuggets and life lessons. He was once like a man lost in thought, sitting on a park bench feeding the pigeons. Check out Andy Andrews’ website, which leads to many wonderful books that may just help you in your journey of life. Just think: if Mr. Andrews never acted on his purpose, we would not have so many wonderful stories of wisdom to read.
Wishing you love and peace always.