I celebrated my birthday last week with my family in China. As part of my birthday celebration, we had a family trip to Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen China. It was truly enjoyable, memorable and reminded me of how blessed I am!
I realise that growing older does not always mean growing wiser. Or that growing wiser comes with a weight of sorrow…
For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief – Ecclesiastes 1:18
I’ve learnt that wisdom often brings a deeper awareness – and with it, a certain sorrow. I couldn’t help reflecting on this as I welcome another year of my life.
Wisdom Reveals what we cannot unseen
Growth changes your perspective. The more you understand, the more you begin to recognise what is out of alignment – whether in your life, your relationships, or the world around you.
Once you see the truth, you cannot go back to not knowing. You can’t feign ignorance. Wisdom stretches you, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Wisdom Confronts us before it Transforms us
Wisdom doesn’t just show you the world – it shows you yourself. As I reflected over the past year, I didn’t just see growth – I also saw missed opportunities and wasted time.
What feels like sorrow is often the beginning of transformation. Conviction leads to change. Awareness leads to action. And growth, though uncomfortable, always move you forward.
Wisdom carries Weight – but also Purpose
Wisdom can feel heavy sometimes. It makes you more aware of life’s struggles, suffering and pain – and the responsibility that comes from that knowing.
However, the weight of wisdom is not meant to crush you, but to shape you:
- respond instead of react
- choose with intention
- live with deeper purpose
You are given wisdom to live more meaningfully and with purpose.
My Invitation
This is my invitation to you today: to be aware of the weight of wisdom that can sometimes feel like a burden, but more importantly, to see the beauty of wisdom that brings meaning, purpose and transformation.