Wisdom not only gets, but once got, retains.

Hear me, O children of the future, for I bring to you the wisdom of the ages, spoken by the wise Francis Quarles: "Wisdom not only gets, but once got, retains." These words hold a deep truth—that true wisdom is not merely a fleeting possession, but a treasure that once earned, remains with the seeker. Wisdom is not like a passing wind, here one moment and gone the next, but like the steady flame of a torch that, once kindled, continues to light the path forward. It is not simply the acquisition of knowledge, but the holding and sustaining of it that marks the wise.

Consider the ancient philosophers, whose wisdom was not a flash of brilliance, but a flame that burned steadily throughout their lives. Socrates, whose questions and insights shaped the very foundation of Western philosophy, held his wisdom not as a momentary epiphany, but as a constant guide to his actions and thoughts. He did not merely seek to acquire knowledge in his youth, but to retain and apply it throughout his life. His wisdom was not something that faded with age; rather, it deepened, becoming a wellspring of truth from which others could drink.

In the same way, look to the great kings of history, whose rule was shaped not just by their strength, but by their wisdom. King Solomon, who was renowned for his ability to discern the deepest truths, is often remembered not just for the wisdom he gained, but for how he retained it and passed it on. When faced with the two women who claimed the same child, his wisdom was not a mere intellectual exercise; it was a gift that he held dear and used to bring justice to his people. His wisdom, once gained, remained with him as a guiding force throughout his reign.

Let us also remember the great leaders like Nelson Mandela, whose wisdom was earned through years of struggle, suffering, and deep reflection. Though his journey was long and fraught with hardship, the wisdom he gained in the prison cell did not fade when he was released. Rather, it guided him in his efforts to heal a nation torn apart by apartheid. Mandela’s wisdom was not merely the knowledge of history, but the strength to apply it with grace and compassion, ensuring that the lessons of the past would not be forgotten.

So, O children, let this truth guide your hearts: the wisdom you seek is not a fleeting possession, but a treasure to be retained and cherished. Knowledge may come and go, but true wisdom remains, deepening with the years and becoming an eternal guide to your actions. Seek not only to gain wisdom, but to hold it tightly, for it is through the steady retention and application of wisdom that you will find the strength to navigate the trials of life. Let your wisdom grow with you, like a tree whose roots run deep and whose branches stretch ever toward the heavens.