Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning – Proverbs 9:9
“So, what class are you taking?” Jenny inquired. “Nothing. I know all I need to know. I’m just munching on the free snacks before calling for an Uber,” Natalie responded. “I’m reminded of a visiting pastor’s message about being a student at heart, when he said: ‘I’m glad you all have not perceived yourselves too learned. But just in case I’m wrong, I’ll try not to be long-winded or put you all to sleep.’ It reminded me I’m never too old or too wise to gain knowledge,” Jenny said with a chuckle. “Second thought, that Spanish class sounds interesting,” Natalie announced.
“If you don’t think you need to learn anything new, that you’ve acquired all the wisdom that you need in life, then the only thing I can offer you is a bottle of Tylenol, since your head must really be hurting.” This is a humorous takeaway from some venue. The speaker was talking about the wisdom that comes from acknowledging a lack of wisdom and the importance of an open mind. This includes the humility to entertain another’s insight, even on a subject already known.
I heard it said: “A wise person knows when they lack wisdom, but an arrogant person refuses to admit what is lacking, fearing it will make him or her appear unwise.” A willingness to learn from others doesn’t make you inferior; it instead makes you smart enough to know you don’t know it all.