Wisdom cannot be reduced to intelligence

Like culture, we cannot point to a place, size or dimension of wisdom. It is ephemeral and defies measuring. It refuses to sit in a neat box of rationality.

Wisdom is not bestowed on smart or intelligent people simply because of their intelligence. 

Cognitive intelligence has the capacity to be as foolish as those who have strong artistic or social intelligence.

Wisdom is multi-dimension. It weaves life experience, lessons learned, intuitive, cognitive, moral, physical and emotional intelligence with the ability to take many perspectives simultaneously, including the largest view possible.

It seeks patience, asks for spaciousness, desires long-form contemplation. It refuses to be squeezed into a timeline.

Wisdom can point to the scars, broken hearts and dark nights that were the path to wisdom’s access. Simultaneously, wisdom knows beauty and love intimately.

Cultivating wisdom is a daily practice over a lifetime.

Photo taken October 3rd 2022