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Timeless wisdom: What I Learned from History, Philosophy, and Culture.

 
Written by Promise Odejide 

I have always been fascinated by wisdom, the ability to see beyond the surface and grasp the deeper meaning of life. Wisdom is not something that can be taught in a classroom or learned from a book. It is something that comes from experience, reflection, and observation. Wisdom is something that transcends time and space, connecting us with our ancestors and their legacy.

Well, in this publication, I want to share with you some of the wisdom that I have discovered from various sources, such as historical figures, philosophical concepts, and cultural proverbs. These are not just words or ideas, but lessons that have shaped my worldview and helped me grow as a person. I hope that they will inspire you as well.

INSIGHTS FROM HISTORICAL FIGURES

One of the ways that I learn wisdom is by listening to the voices of those who have made a difference in the world, those who have left a mark on history with their actions and words. Some of these people are Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. They are not only leaders, but also teachers, who have shown me the value of peace, nonviolence, and justice.

Mahatma Gandhi taught me to be the change that I wish to see in the world. He showed me that I have the power to make a positive impact on society by being aware of myself and my actions.

Nelson Mandela taught me that education is the most powerful weapon which I can use to change the world. He showed me that knowledge and education are not only for personal benefit, but also for social transformation.

Martin Luther King Jr. taught me to have a dream and to pursue it with courage and conviction. He showed me that dreams and aspirations are not just fantasies, but visions of a better world.

PHILOSOPHICAL CONCEPTS

Another way that I learn wisdom is by exploring the ideas of those who have delved into the mysteries of existence and our place in the universe. Some of these ideas are stoicism, wu wei, and carpe diem. They are not only philosophies, but also practices, that have helped me cope with life's challenges and opportunities.

Stoicism taught me to focus on what I can control and let go of what I can't. It helped me find inner peace and resilience in the face of adversity.

Wu wei taught me to embrace the flow of life and align myself with the natural order. It helped me achieve effortless action and harmony with the universe.

Carpe diem taught me to seize the day and make the most of the present moment. It helped me appreciate the impermanence of life and live with purpose and enthusiasm.

CULTURAL PROVERBS

A third way that I learn wisdom is by listening to the sayings of those who have inherited the values and beliefs of their cultures. Some of these sayings are "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together", "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now", and "The guest is God". They are not only proverbs, but also reminders, that have guided me in my relationships and decisions.

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together" taught me the importance of collaboration and unity in achieving lasting success. It reminded me that I am not alone in this journey, but part of a larger community.

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now" taught me the importance of taking action and not dwelling on missed opportunities. It reminded me that I can always start anew and work towards a brighter future.

"The guest is God" taught me the importance of hospitality and respect for others. It reminded me to treat every person with kindness and compassion.


To conclude this narration, the above are some of the sources of wisdom that I have learned from over the years. They are not exhaustive or definitive, but rather personal and subjective. They are not meant to be followed blindly or dogmatically, but rather interpreted critically and creatively. They are not static or fixed, but rather dynamic and evolving.

I believe that wisdom is not something that can be possessed or claimed, but something that can be shared and exchanged. Wisdom is not something that can be measured or quantified, but something that can be felt and experienced. Wisdom is not something that can be lost or forgotten, but something that can be passed on and remembered.

I hope that by sharing my wisdom with you, I have sparked your curiosity and interest in discovering your own wisdom from your own sources. I hope that by learning from each other's wisdom, we can create a more compassionate, empathetic, and enlightened society, promoting a brighter future for generations to come. 

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