Does Age Determine Wisdom?

When I was younger I used to be told that I was wise beyond my years. I thought people were just crazy. I had no idea what they were talking about. I was just being logical and rational... of course, I've also been accused of being as cold and distant as a Vulcan too.

"Youth cannot know how age thinks and feels. But old men are guilty if they forget what it was to be young." J. K. Rowling

Peace

found this topical in the book i am reading now, way of the peaceful warrior, by dan millman:

“The world out there,” (socrates) said, waving his arm across the horizon, “is a school, Dan. Life is the only real teacher. It offers many experiences, and if experience alone brought wisdom and fulfillment, then elderly people would all be happy, enlightened masters. But the lessons of experience are hidden. I can help you learn from experience to see the world clearly.”

Yes I believe age determines wisdom but not every old person you meet will be wise for they have not done sufficient work on themselves to attain such a recognition.

First, the wise person has good understanding and possesses a good dose of common sense. If I met a wise person I would expect them to give me good advice on life matters and that comes from experience. I would also want them to have a deep understanding of life.

Second, the wise person is able to discern right and wrong. Although I expect them to be open minded and not see the world as black and white, I would still expect them to see the greater consequence that certain negative actions will have in the future.

Third, a wise person is curious. They have a sincere desire to understand. Young children display this quality but it isn’t enough to declare them wise. Let’s face it, children can just as easily be reckless not seeing the long term consequence of their actions.

Fourth, a wise person is versatile. They are interested in a variety of interests and subjects. They have an opened mind rather than a narrow focus on one or two topics. I've always pictured a wise person like someone who is very knowledgeable. That older person that seems to have read all the books in the library. It takes time to do that.

Finally, the wise person is a good critical thinker. They have the capacity to tell truth from falsehood by identifying flaws in reasoning. They are usually on an eternal search for truth, understanding and happiness. The quest of a wise person is for deep inner fulfillment and harmony. Again this is done through trial and error that can only be learnt by experiencing life.

Jayden
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mareeka can only say there seems to be a marriage of seeing and choosing inherent in wisdom . .

the muse sings to it . . .