Leonardo da Vinci called wisdom “the sustenance and truly dependable wealth of the mind.” To him, there were few things more important than attaining it.
But what is wisdom?
A person who is “wise” is usually also thought of as older in years. But is this accurate? I’m sure you’ve met someone who is “wise beyond their years.” I know I have.
Wisdom, then, must not necessarily come from time, or even experience. It seems that it instead comes from somewhere else.
I’ve found that the more I understand my own motivations, the things that drive me, and sort through my priorities, the closer I get to real wisdom. Socrates said, “Know thyself.” To know oneself, then, could be the true Way to this thing called wisdom.
Why are so many of us clueless about our Selves? Why do so many of us go about in a zombie-like state, not really knowing why they’re here or what the hell is going on? Well, the Self, the true Self, is hard to come by. It’s not immediately apparent, for most of us, anyway, who or what the True Self is.
So how can we get in touch with the True Self?
Don’t worry: I’m not going to answer in the conventional ways. I’m not going to tell you you have to start meditating, eating healthier, or cutting out Instagram. I’m not going to preach about spirituality or religion. I’m not even going to tell you that you should consider quitting your job.
Finding the True Self is all about realization. First, realizing that we have a True Self. Realizing that we want to get back there (possibly more than anything). And realizing that by realizing these things, we are already starting to wake up.
A wise man once said that it starts with Willingness. So, it seems, the way to Wisdom is nothing more than Willingness. Willingness to be shown the Way. Willingness to get back to the True Self.
Willingness to be Wise!
