Wisdom

“Follow your instincts. That’s where true wisdom manifests itself.” Oprah Winfrey
“We are all related.” Old Native American proverb
“How wonderful it is that no one has to wait, but can start right now to change the world.” Anne Frank
“Anyone who doesn’t believe in miracles is not a realist.” Audrey Hepburn
“Never throughout history has a man lived a life of ease left a name worth remembering.” Theodore Roosevelt
“Admire as much as you can; most people do not admire enough.” Vincent van Gogh

All wise words. Wisdom is knowledge, understanding, experience, discretion, and intuitive understanding, along with a capacity to apply these qualities towards finding solutions and making ecological decisions. It is the judicious and purposeful application of knowledge that is valued in society.
What is the meaning of wisdom in the context of celebrating, remembering and honoring the benefits of four hundred years of American-Dutch relationships?
The Dutch settlers followed their instincts. Now they have so many American descendants. They did not wait, and started to change the world. They probably believed in miracles, even made them happen. Many names are still remembered, which means they must have not led ‘a life of ease’. We sure can admire them for that.
When we look into the future of America and The Netherlands, we hope for true words, and indeed deeds, of wisdom of both countries to continue their exchange of people and ideas. One important action could be to register the results of the adventures of the Hudson 400 celebration in 2009. To see whether we have brought this relationship to a higher level, that we reap the fruits of this long lasting history. To make it happen that in 2109 new words of wisdom will appear.

Which words of wisdom form an inspiration for you and your company?
Which examples do you have for applying the qualities of wisdom well towards finding solutions and making ecological decisions?