Wisdom

This will probably evolve and change some as my dp studies continue but it is a start.

From the Merriam-Webster.com

1  a : accumulated philosophic or scientific learning 

    b : ability to discern inner qualities and relationships 

   c : good sense 

   d : generally accepted belief <challenges what has become accepted wisdom among many historians — Robert Darnton>

2

   : a wise attitude, belief, or course of action

3

   : the teachings of the ancient wise men

Many people put a lot of emphasis on book learning, thinking that having several degrees and mounds of books obviously makes them a wise person.  According to the first definition of the word, it does, but to me that is only the beginning and really only a small portion of what the word really means.  I have known people that are certified geniuses but have not an ounce of common sense in them. 

I believe the most important part of this virtue is having the knowledge of what is right and wrong and acting on it.  All the book knowledge does no one any good if they don’t know how to use that knowledge. 

A person’s attitude makes a big difference.  I have known people who know a lot of stuff, have all kinds of knowledge, yet their attitude is awful.  They look down on people, talk down to them.  They think they are truly wise and are blessing others with their wisdom.  This is not the actions of a wise person.  A wise person shares their knowledge, listens to others and acts to benefit themselves or others.  This is what I am striving for, to have the knowledge, to know when to use it, when to listen to others and when to do nothing.