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: Recognize, Respond, and Rise
The WiseWords video series provides New Americans with the knowledge, support, and culturally relevant resources needed to recognize signs of emotional distress, respond effectively, and rise to sustain a healthy, resilient lifestyle.
A. RECOGNIZE
"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.
"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.
"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.
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Life Happens, We Choose How to Respond
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Thorns & Dreams
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The Whispers We Mustn't Ignore
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Stay Alert When Things Don't Seem Right
"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.
B. RESPOND
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Be Kind to Everyone
"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.
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Don't Get Lost
"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.
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Skip the Noise
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The Rewards of Obedience
"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.
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Turn Around When You're Going the Wrong Way
“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.
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Life Isn't Fixed
“Life's outcome is not fixed; it is shaped by the choices we make.”
Life's outcomes aren't predetermined; they grow out of the choices we make every day. Here are some guiding principles to help us shape a future that reflects our best intentions and values.
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We are Stronger Together
“If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.”
If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you’re aiming for something truly fulfilling, go together. Begin by belonging to a community of loving and caring people.
C. RISE
"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.
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No Shortcuts to Success
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We Rise by Lifting Each Other
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Be True to Yourself
"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.
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Celebrate the Progress You've Made
"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.
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I Am Because We Are
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The Sky is Big Enough
"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.
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From Setback to Strength
"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly,"
Life won’t always move the way you planned. But every setback carries a message, and every tough moment is training you for the next level.
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Peace is Contagious
“The rooster that perches on a weak fence unsettles the fence and finds no rest itself.”
Those who devote themselves to making others miserable rarely find peace, but those who pursue peace cultivate a life filled with love and harmony.
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.
