The function of the wise elder in society.

In Stoic philosophy the wise elder is called a "sage." The sage lives a life of virtue based on the four stoic cardinal virtues: wisdom, self discipline, courage,, and justice. The sage has practiced these virtues and aspires to develop them to perfection. The life of a sage becomes vibrant and resonant with those who come into contact with it. Wisdom rubs off. Do you know anyone like this who you feel better about yourself when you are simply around them?

With the development of the four cardinal virtues the wise elder embodies resilience, integrity, and holiness. As such the wise elder is reliable, dependable, and a beacon of guidance for decision making and action. 

The wise elder’s wisdom is not based solely on intellectual knowledge or technological skill but on values; what matters in how knowledge and technology is utilized. The wise elder provides a moral compass that comes from a lifetime of experience and reflection and increase in consciousness at a personal and a social level. The wise elder knows what to do based on a deep understanding of right and wrong given the circumstances and factors that challenge decision making. The wise elder is a light house for the ships at sea who are trying to find their way and avoid collision with the hidden obstacles and barriers that exist beneath the surface.

The wise elder has expanded their consciousness and is aware of the interdependent web of existence of which human beings are a part. The wise elder is not only aware of the interdependent web but affirms and promotes it and utilizes this awareness in their interactions with others.

The function of the wise elder in society is to facilitate the enhancement of the level of consciousness of human beings. A wise elder asks themselves what would Love have me do, and then acts accordingly.