Inching Our Way Toward Authentic Wisdom

The pace of our journey is determined by the authenticity being uncovered

One time I was driving down a four-lane road. It was wide but in a residential area. There were many cross and side streets. I eventually came up behind a very slow-moving, beautiful, black Cadillac Escalade.

I am kind of terrible when it comes to being an impatient Florida driver. I thought to myself, "Ugh! Nice car, but WHY are they going SO slow?" And, immediately, this thought popped into my head, "They are simply trying to find their way. Don't get frustrated with someone who is just trying to find their way."

My Guardian Angel deserves a bonus for that reminder. Thanks, G-Angel!

The past few years have been awesome, and many outward examples of life-changing directions have appeared. When I first came out in 2015, the changes came quickly and fast. Now, over seven years later, I have space to breathe, slow down and examine how life has and continues to change.

In other words, like the beautiful Escalade land-barge, I have slowed down to find my way in this brand new life I never thought possible. I haven't felt comfortable going at a "normal" speed or making turns without being positive it is the right turn to take. But right now, my higher self’s GPS is slowing me down, eyes wide open and not too concerned about what others may think of where I am in my journey.

Over the years, I have advised/warned people never to talk past what they know. Never assume they have wisdom simply because they know the talking points. Knowledge and experience do not equate to wisdom, no matter how emotional or declarative you get. Knowledge and experience can be wonderful on their own, but the everyday application of knowledge within our experiences only provides an opportunity for wisdom. Wisdom is never guaranteed or easily grasped. Wisdom comes from the fruit of meditation and relationships. It takes time. Wisdom, more often than not, says, slow down and consider.

A rare few listened to me, including me :) But that last paragraph is why you don’t see me writing about how to be a good gay bonus dad and several other issues. I have to live, learn, experience, and consider what the Divine has put in my path a bit more before I would comfortably feel like I have something to share beyond, “OH MY GOD, I am trying to advise a sixteen-year-old and don’t know how to speak teen girl!”

I don't think it would be right to say I have obtained wisdom, but I know one thing for certain. Talking points are pseudo-intellectual fast-food for infotainers in an echo chamber. Wisdom is a generous banquet that seeks to nourish the many, not just satisfy the moment.

I say we all give ourselves permission to slow down or respect those who need more time to find their way in whatever they face. We don’t want to short circuit wisdom’s work.

Being mindful of our own and others, journeys will help us all arrive safe.