My Pastor, The Rev. Dr. William E. Flippin Sr., of The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA, often says that your circle of friends and acquaintances are not complete if you do not have a mentor, or some grey-haired persons as a part of it. I am paraphrasing.

On the other hand, I say, if your circle of friends and acquaintances are composed of nothing but grey-haired souls, you could be missing out on the rich exchange that can take place in an interrelated relationship with young souls. Some of my greatest lessons learned have been from those much younger than myself. Especially sixth grade, exceptional, students.

As a wise judge, Solomon remarks on the importance of “due diligence.” A person needs to hear both sides of a case before rendering a decision. Many claims and accusations seem plausible until scrutinized.  The Book of Proverbs tells us that “The first person to present his case seems right, until another comes and examines him.”

Daily life is full of examples proving the wisdom of this proverb. Friends, neighbors, or co-workers might make accusations against each other, telling only one side of the story. But a person needs to hear from others involved, or at least learn all the relevant facts, before attempting to declare who is telling the truth.

As an Exceptional Education Teacher, I often had a different opinion than my students. Sometimes it over flowed to the parents. I learned from an experienced Science teacher, when that happened it behooved me to tell my side first. It may have temporarily stopped the teaching process for a few moments but the results were almost, always positive.

Solomon demonstrated a creative method of seeking more information. He showed strange judgement in the case of two women, each claiming to be the mother of the same child. Solomon suggested the baby be cut in half, with half given to each woman. The real mother strongly objected, while the other was willing to make the sacrifice.

Females are noted for making incredible sacrifices that others might not understand or agree with. I am a living witness.