More Than Just Years: Why I'm an Eternal Wise Student, Not an "Elder"

For over four decades, I've walked the path of a Hedge Druid. My library, both physical and digital (shout out to my Discord community!), overflows with esoteric texts. I've absorbed a vast amount of knowledge, delved deep into ancient traditions, and spent countless hours in study and practice. So, yes, if knowledge accumulation were the sole metric, you might be tempted to call me an elder.

And frankly, it really bothers me when my friends do.

It’s not that I don’t appreciate the sentiment, but the title of "elder" feels… off. It suggests a finality, a peak of understanding that I simply don't believe I possess yet. More importantly, it often implies that wisdom is solely a product of accumulated knowledge, and that’s a definition I wholeheartedly disagree with.

Knowledge vs. Emotional Intelligence: The Heart of the Matter

To me, true elderhood isn't about how much you know, but about your emotional intelligence and the depth of your understanding of the source material. It's about how you feel and integrate that knowledge, not just how much you've memorized.

Sure, I sometimes find myself a bit exasperated by the youthful exuberance and occasional lack of experience in some of the younger folks I encounter. There are moments when I want to say, "If you only knew what I've seen!" But then, almost without fail, the universe reminds me to check my own assumptions.

The Unseen Wisdom of the Young

In my 40+ years, it has never ceased to amaze me what I learn from the young. They might lack the academic background, but they often make up for it with an incredible, unfiltered intuition. I've had moments where I’ve been studying a piece of lore, a magickal theory or spiritual concept for years, pouring over every detail, and then someone younger, with fresh eyes and an open heart, offers a perspective that simply blows my mind. It's like, "Why didn't I see that? I've been studying and living with this material for years, and they just walk in and offer this innocent, profound insight."

This is where the old saying, "wisdom from the mouth of babes," hits home with particular force. It's a humbling reminder that profound truths aren't exclusive to age or extensive formal study. They can emerge from anywhere, especially from minds unburdened by preconceptions.

What a True Elder Looks Like to Me

For me, real elders are quiet. They don't need to assert their knowledge or their authority. Instead, they encourage their students to surpass them. They understand that true wisdom isn't about being the smartest person in the room; it's about fostering growth, inspiring new thought, and humbly recognizing that the journey of learning is endless.

They possess vast knowledge, yes, and years of emotional intelligence that allows them to navigate life's complexities with grace and discernment. This experience provides a deep well of understanding and the ability to see patterns others miss. But their wisdom is also defined by their humility and their unwavering openness to new insights, regardless of where they come from.

So, while one doesn't have to be old to be wise, the profound blend of vast knowledge and deep emotional intelligence, honed over years, often forms the foundation of true elderhood. Yet, the wisest among us remain eternal students.

That's why, no, I'm not an elder. I am, and hope to always be, an eternal wise student. The journey of learning and understanding is ongoing, and I'm always ready for the next lesson, no matter who delivers it.

Do you resonate with this idea of being an "eternal wise student" in your own path? Tell me about it.