Our Elders Say ...
A young person may walk swiftly, but it is the elder who knows the road.
In many African societies where oral tradition is central, both young and old turn to time-honored proverbs as powerful tools for passing down values, history, and practical wisdom from one generation to the next. The words of the elders carry particular weight—they have journeyed to places the youth have yet to reach and witnessed things the young can only imagine.
Proverbs serve as instruments of instruction, correction, and gentle insight into life’s complexities. In moments of conflict—whether within families or across communities—they offer a pathway to reason, reconciliation, and harmony
About WiseWords
WiseWords is a video series designed to guide both young and old along trusted, compassionate paths for navigating life's emotional challenges. Whether facing inner turmoil or moments of distress, viewers are gently invited to reflect, recognize, and respond with wisdom.
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Created for immigrants and natives alike, WiseWords offers culturally attuned insights into the signs of trauma and emotionally challenging experiences, especially in unfamiliar environments. Each video equips viewers with practical tools—grounded in empathy and resilience—to address what troubles the mind and heart. Through storytelling, metaphor, and clear guidance, WiseWords fosters emotional safety, self-awareness, and healing across generations and communities.
WiseWords Series
Our Elders Say ...
WW-01.
No Shortcuts to Success
WW-02.
The Power of Kindness
WW-03.
The Whispers We Mustn't Ignore
WW-04.
From Thorns to Dreams
WW-05.
Life Happens, but We Choose How to Respond
WW-06,
The Bravery of Self-Control
WW-07.
We Rise by Lifting Each Other
WW-08.
The Courage to Be Yourself
WW-09.
Don't Walk Alone
WW-10
I Am Because We Are
WW-11
The Sky is Big Enough
WW-12
What Truly Matters
WW-13.
Stay the Course
WW-14
Appreciate Yourself
WW-15
Learn From Mistakes
WW-16
Be Vigilant
"There are no shortcuts to the top of the palm tree."
The easy way out may offer comfort, but it rarely builds character. Real growth comes through effort, discipline, and perseverance.
"An elephant that kills a rat is not a hero, but a coward."
Bullies instill fear, but fear is not strength. True courage lies in lifting others up, not tearing them down.
"If you ignore your bug-eating neighbor, his coughing will keep you awake at night."
Don’t dismiss a seemingly minor annoyance. It may quietly grow into a larger problem. Similarly, don’t overlook mental health challenges. Left unaddressed, they can intensify and become far more difficult to manage.
"When you spot a man running through a forest of thorns, he's either in pursuit of something - or fleeing from it."
Behind every immigrant journey is a story of courage and longing. Some flee unbearable hardship; others run toward the hope of a better future for their families. Ask how you can help.
"A tree does not fall because of the wind's noise, but because its roots are weak."
We may not control what life brings our way, but we can prepare for challenges—and choose how we respond with wisdom and grace.
"A warrior fights with courage, not anger."
Anger and lack of self-control don’t reveal our best selves. Real courage chooses gentleness, even in moments of frustration, and builds trust through compassion and restraint.
"When the little toe hurts, the whole body rushes to its aid,"
We are one human family. When one part aches, we all feel it, and compassion moves us to respond with love.
"The foolish fish leaps out of the water, trying to imitate the goose."
Blindly imitating others is a perilous path. True success lies in recognizing our unique gifts and pursuing them with courage, discipline, and wholehearted effort.
"A traveler who asks for directions rarely walks astray."
Life often unfolds like a long and winding road. At times, everything falls into place effortlessly. And at other times, it doesn't. Our struggles become lighter when we learn to ask for help when needed.
"I am Because We Are" (Ubuntu).
We bring out the best in humanity when we look out for one another; when we nurture growth, foster dignity, and help each other thrive.
"The sky is big enough for every bird to soar, without ever colliding,"
Tolerance isn’t about abandoning who we are; it’s about making space for others to rise. It’s about creating room for everyone to become their best.
"It is not every barking dog that deserves our attention."
Life is full of irritations, but don’t let trivial distractions steal your peace. Focus on what truly matters to safeguard your emotional well-being..
"When a dog is about to stray, it no longer hears the hunter's whistle."
People go astray—morally, emotionally, or socially—when they stop listening to the voices of wisdom, authority, or care that once guided them.
"The lizard that leapt from the lofty Iroko tree said, 'If no one applauds me, I will applaud myself."
Stay anchored in your own values. Let them—not the opinions or influences of others—guide the way you live.
“It is only by wandering that we discover the right path.”
Mistakes make us wiser and stronger. Each misstep teaches us something, but only if we’re willing to learn.
"When vultures hover, don’t fall asleep."
In moments of vulnerability, stay strong and alert. Transform struggles into strength, pain into healing, and setbacks into growth.
Welcome
Appreciation
We’re grateful for our partnership with ElevenLabs LLC, whose voiceover expertise brings the WiseWords videos to life.
Special thanks to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for generously providing grant support for the Health and Wellness Project.
