Read this quote today on someone’s Facebook page.
“By three methods we may learn wisdom: first by reflection,which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest;and third, by experience, which is the most bitter. “
While there is some truth in the above, what my experiences have taught me is the bitterness turns sweet when the wisdom emerges.
Imitation literally doesn’t teach wisdom. That infact is the easiest way to take credit for wisdom that is not yours. It’s easily forgotten by the imitator; for the effort was never theirs’ to begin with.
Reflection in fact is the hardest ( don’t know bout noblest ) for or requires constant introspection of each action, thought and event.
Would love to hear more opinions on the same.
I agree with ur view point…One doesn't learn by imitation at all…By experience, one learns but at its own pace…The most difficult is to learn by reflection bcoz thats where one has to fight with his own self or question it….
Imitation is attractive, I guess, because it helps create an image of a wiser self.. and very conveniently so.
But then again, as you pointed out – it is not really a way to become wiser.