Wisdom That Transcends Time

I sit on my couch, eyes fixed on the screen, watching a documentary about Queen Cleopatra. I have always been fascinated by history—the power struggles, the intrigue, the way empires rise and fall. But this time, something different resonates with me. The way siblings are pitted against one another for power, for wealth—it strikes a nerve. It alarms and saddens me.

No matter what, my siblings are my blood, my family, my forever. I would lay down my life for them, but never raise a hand to harm them. Betrayal and the hunger for dominance have no place in the bond woven into our very blood—I honor and protect this connection.

Mommy’s wisdom still guides us: “Stick together, no matter what.” Her voice, firm yet warm, echoes in my mind. “Relationships will come and go, but y’all are siblings forever.”

These are the lessons ingrained in us—not just by our mother, but by every elder who took pride in shaping us. We were taught to think strategically, to carry ourselves with dignity and self-respect, to be the best at whatever we chose to do. We debate, we argue, but we forgive. And above all, we lead. We don’t follow the masses blindly; we move with intention. That, I realize now, is true leadership.

Even in the midst of struggles, we rise. Hope is never lost when faith is still present. And with faith comes tests.

I replay my recent encounter with Frank, an older Japanese acupuncturist—a man of few words but infinite wisdom. He has been practicing for over twenty years, yet he humbly admits that even that isn’t enough to call himself a Master. His humility disarms me, but his words cut even deeper.

He is stern, matter-of-fact, and unapologetically direct. When I ask him a question, he shakes his head and tells me I have asked the wrong one. Then, with the patience of someone who has seen many come before me, he teaches me how to ask better questions—especially of myself.

“You still struggle with anxiety,” he observes, his voice even. “That means you’re trying to live in the past and the future instead of the present.”

The truth of his words settles over me like a weight. How often do I do just that? Worrying about what has been, stressing over what is to come, instead of simply being here—now. It is humbling to be schooled in such a way, but I welcome it. Because wisdom isn’t just about knowing—it’s about growing. And today, I am growing.

Today, I am grateful that I allowed myself to BE present—with Frank, with my mother, with my father, and with the other elders that guide me. I am grateful that I am BEcoming an elder, but much like Frank, I recognize there is still much to learn and Master. And the grand lesson? Mastery begins with self.

Reflection Questions: 

• In what ways am I holding onto the past or reaching too far into the future?

• How can I be more present in my daily life? 

• What lessons from my elders still guide me today? 

• How do I define leadership in my own life?

Thoughtfully, 

Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris

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