There is such wisdom that comes from our elders. In a society that rushes through life and celebrates youth, we miss out on stopping and taking time to be present with the old folks. When we sit and listen to the stories, the struggles, the joys and then the reflection that comes with looking back on decades of a lifetime, one can see how our elders can be our modern day prophets. They hold a spiritual wisdom that has been tested through death, birth, uncertainty, change, and opportunity. Much spiritual wisdom can come from a long life.
I want to share some wisdom from the elders in my life and from the elders/ancestors in the lives of members on this listserv. (Some quotes are paraphrased.)
May these words from our ancestors and elders guide you wherever you are on your journey right now.
On Spirituality . . .
God is in charge and all is well. Divine order. –Grandma Gummer
Whatever it is you’re hoping for or praying for, just take it one day at a time. –Granny
You have to pray, plan, and persevere. -Rev. Gwen Hall
On Success. . .
Keep your eyes on the prize. –Monte Posey
Don’t put off what you can do today for tomorrow. -Grandpa Henry George Buzan
On Fear and Struggle . . .
Do you know how camels avoid the sun? They face the sun head on and use their own shadow to avoid the heat. That's a lesson about how we can face our own fears. -Mira Lee
It’s all in the mind….you can think about things in negative ways and make life harder or you can think about things in positive ways and make life easier. I choose the latter. –Grandma Petersen
On Others . . .
When you meet somebody for the first time, just do not judge them good or bad. Give time to know the person. Then you will know the person better. -Amma
Don't be envious or jealous because there will always be someone who has more than you and there will always be someone who has less than you. -Cecilia Storey
Special thank you to all the readers who shared wisdom from your elders and ancestors!
peace,
Natasha Burrowes
Spiritual Director, Educator, Writer