Last spring, I was wondering how I should interact with my college-aged son. He was living on his own and doing respectfully well, but occasionally he would share a struggle or describe a scenario that tempted me to provide some unsolicited wisdom. The struggle is simply this, would it be better to share what life has taught me over my decades of living or do I let him find out for himself. We both know that experiential learning is both the most effective and the riskiest.

I spoke to my son about my inner struggle; I would be so disappointed with myself if I had some insight into a situation and did not share it, but I also did not want him to quit telling me things because I was always butting in, so we made a deal. More accurately, I made an offer, and he accepted it. I would offer Unsolicited Wisdom as I have gained it though life and literature, and it would be just that, an offer. He would be able to think about it, test it out and ultimately to accept or reject it on his own.

So far, it has worked well. I do sometimes slip into the “shoulds”; you know, you should think about it this way, or you should not forget to try this. However, I try to stick with the life lessons learned and let him figure out the life application.

This fall I am trying something else. I am planning to send him and some of his friends memes and quotes that remind all of us of the enduring truths found in the wisdom of the ages. Perhaps I will throw a funny quote in from time to time myself to make more enjoyable. They too will come with the same agreement - take them or leave them.

I am planning to do the same with this blog - which I have named Unsolicited Wisdom. The deal is the same for any reader. If the work resonates with you, take it and try it in your life. Alternatively, set it aside, after all, it is just unsolicited wisdom.