Experience Teaches Wisdom, so Do I Listen or Do I Learn?

‘Experience teaches wisdom’, a statement that is continually spoken by the older folks. Spoken by the experienced. A statement that we won’t truly understand until we ‘experience’. Growing up, we think we know what we need to know. We have that fierce attitude, (well, I got to live my life on my own terms). We shout it freely; our pledge to learn from our experiences. Decisions we make override all other wisdom of others- because, we too need to understand and live. The nature of life, I suppose.

Paulo Coelho states “Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”

A lot of us embrace this state of living.

At school, we are taught many things. Knowledge is heavily focused on theory-based practices. We gain a practical skill set when we are in the ‘real world’. Naturally, it brings a shock to the system. Surface-level information can only take us so far. It is the experience that creates a better understanding and sense of being.

Similarly to driving a car. A learner is not quite adept at certain tips and tricks of an experienced driver. “Use your judgement”. Skills and knowledge develop over time with consistent effort. It is not a simple 1,2,3. In this situation, theory and observing others can only go so far. A definite experience is needed.

In Lena Horne’s interview, she offered advice to upcoming actresses who might play her role in a movie. Lena stated that she wanted them to “Be as wise as I am now and I don’t know how to expect that because it took me all these years to get this wise.”

Experience of Self Vs Others

Though it is a great way to embrace life, there is that niggling feeling, (Maybe they are right). It is great to live on our terms but….. is it so difficult to learn from the experience of others.

Using a Jamaican proverb,

If fish deh a river bottom and tell yuh seh alligator have gum boil, believe im

(Translation: If a fish is at the bottom of the river, and tells you that the alligator has gum boil, believe it.)

this speaks to the experience of another. It encourages the use of taking into account another’s experience. To wisely use such experience in the decisions that we make in life.

The lack of experience causes us to forego this option. The need to experience something to feel that we understand. The feeling, the grinding and the heartbreaking circumstances that we have to live and build through. It builds character they say.

‘If only I knew then what I know now’, a similar outlook. It is the knowledge that we are alluding to. The understanding that our experience has opened our eyes. The view that our decisions might not have been the best. This is centered around regret.

We have to live with our decisions. We have to grow and let it elevate us in some way somehow.

It is simply a neverending loop of trying to see the full picture. Should we experience it or simply trust another’s wisdom? They equally have their pros, cons, regrets and satisfactions. Selections could be championed by various groups. Debate turning into a nonstop scene.

It is that understanding that must be absorbed. There is greatness in experiencing situations on our own, and there is equally greatness in learning from someone else’s experience.

There is no one element that is greater for all situations.

This was simply a chaotic content where the author is still figuring out this madness called life. Take Care!