No Scars? Think Twice

Life lessons from the old man’s telescopic view

The Making of a Lifelong Learner

It is long since I shared lessons from the old man of Saxony (Sachsen). The deep and reflective discourse he engaged me in before the COVID-19 pandemic changed my worldview, for good. But when I thought I had had enough of his lessons to make me an independent and accomplished thought leader, another instance challenged me to think again. The penny dropped! The more I learn, the more I need to learn. This sounds like the case of the universe and dark energy — ever expanding, doesn't it? Is it not Neil deGrasse Tyson who said that a good education is not one that fills your head with facts, but one that arouses your childlike curiosity to inquire and learn for life? Thus, a lifelong learner is born.

Another Lucky Encounter

We had another lucky encounter just outside the towering cathedral on the eastern side of Silver City (Siberstadt). Graciously carrying along the gait of a weathered pilgrim, time-polished eyes, and wrinkled wisdom, he spared time to share with me some tips on the significance of history.

“I adore this city, the shiny faces and smiles decorating it as summer approaches,” I said as my face lit up with optimism.

“Don’t trust people without scars. Either they have not braved the storms and rugged paths long enough to earn trust as dependable generals, or they hide behind masks — ashamed of the very experiences that…