We often sit within a moment of time, contemplate our lives, and conclude who we are and where we are going. Sometimes in a positive light, sometimes negative.
However no one can accurately make that assessment within any one moment, because we are more than what a snapshot of time can reveal. Each of us is bigger than a moment. Each of us is spread out over time. Every breath we take and everything we touch and see. Every smell. Every thought and feeling. Every memory. Every action.
Also, whenever we assess our life to be good or bad, and to what degree, the decision is colored by our momentary feelings. Feelings are real but by themselves unreliable jurors to judge the past or predict the future in light of the present. The same can be said for thoughts.
What’s missing?
Wisdom. Emotional and intellectual maturity. It lifts us up, beyond and above the moment, provides a clear view of who we were, who we are, and who we can be, across that broad spectrum of time we call life. Without that perspective we stumble foolishly.
The discernment of wisdom is cumulative, gained over time with experience. Often the hard way. But the wisdom gained is worth the hardship experienced by the clarity it provides.
We can’t finish the race and complete our life’s task without it.
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