It is such a cliched phrase. We often quote it, we often read it, we often hear it.

But do we practice it enough? Do we deliberately seek that wisdom?

As is often the case, we do know this subconsciously. We know that there’s much more our elders or just people who’ve had more experience than us can offer us.

Perhaps, as with those truisms that stay with us without being heeded enough, we ignore or overlook this powerful tool.

This past week, I had a couple of instances when I was reminded of this timeless adage.

The first, as is the wont for a dad, was a conversation with my girl about her learning. I was speaking with her about how these days kids don’t spend enough time with elders, and how it robs them of learning through from the wisdom their elders have.

As we discussed my childhood and how I learnt from my elders, I realized that I still have opportunities to do so. Somehow, in the humdrum of acting like a grown-up, I had unknowingly overlooked the fact.

It made me think about the benefits I could reap in different spheres of life by doing so. And the more I thought about it, the more it made sense to me.

The second instance was a conversation with a neighbour about an issue we have been dealing with. He is quite elder to me but is also a friend.

As we were discussing the issue, he shared some insights from his past life which aptly fit the situation. And as I listened to him, I felt I was being immersed in something I had never known.

Just during the chat, talking about his experience, I learnt so much. And I believe, as we work through the situation we have in front of us, I will surely learn much more.

What a wonderful way to learn, I recalled after our chat…

There are so many other contexts, that I don’t know about or haven’t been exposed to yet. Hopefully, I will find enough opportunities to know and interact with experienced people on those topics.

All I have to do is to remain open to learn!