Wisdom (Cognitive Balance)

Wisdom is not a one-dimensional quality. It is something like an intersection of knowledge and understanding with commonsense… A cultivated awareness of the big picture along with attentiveness to detail… Consistent, tenacious, and ready for change... Open-hearted with clear, strong boundaries…

Wisdom seems to presume and produce thoroughgoing balance. While its varied streams and currents seem to flow in and out through the mind, it certainly involves much more than cognition; it’s a whole-soul endeavor. Furthermore, it makes no sense in isolation: wisdom is relational.

Copyright Scott Burnett 2006

silent

I recently posted a quote on my other blog that celebrates the gift of shutting up. More quotes extolling silence appeared in the comments section. The conversation (yes, it is slightly ironic to have a conversation about not talking) brought to mind one of my favorite Hebrew proverbs.

Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent,
and discerning if he holds his tongue. Proverbs 17:28

I love the confluence of commonsense and comedy in those words!