“Joyful are those who attain wisdom, and those who acquire understanding, for her profit is greater than silver and her gain more valuable than gold. She is more valuable than precious stones, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand; in her left hand are wealth and honor. Her pathways are delightful, and all her routes lead to tranquility. She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who cling to her are deemed fortunate.” Proverbs 3:13-18 NRSVUE
“I feel deep sympathy for them, but I must remain silent. For how could we manage without sugar and rum?”
In 1788, William Cowper expressed these sentiments in his poem “Pity for Poor Africans.” It’s important not to plunge into the dark depths of slavery with this quote. Instead, reflect on the heartbreaking reality this statement represents and the constrained mindset that persists in our society.
What alternatives would they have had without the sugar and rum produced by their enslaved forebears? It’s a thought-provoking inquiry. The potential was immense, yet by dehumanizing others, one inevitably dehumanizes oneself—stifling one’s own critical thought, creativity, lasting peace, and recognition of God’s eternal presence.
Sugar and rum have certainly not faded away, and the old oppressive spirits manifest in various forms, sizes, and hues in today’s world. Nowadays, we simply refer to sugar and rum by different names. They are the forces that prevent us from recognizing both ourselves and others as human beings — the vessels of divinity.
They represent the deadly thirst for power that undermines our relationships with one another. They symbolize the beauty we waste in pursuit of convenience. Moreover, if one were stranded on a deserted island, sugar and rum would not provide the means for survival. What shall we do without our own version of “sugar and rum?” Perhaps, just perhaps, we would discover freedom.
Some attribute the writings of Proverbs 3 to King Solomon, while others suggest that it was composed by a group of wise individuals. Regardless, Proverbs 3 imparts wisdom gleaned from lived experience. Pricey lessons have gifted this author the insights found in verses 13-18. As the youth put it, “If you know, you know.”
Notice that this passage begins with “happy” and concludes with “happy.” This is no mere coincidence. We are presented with a narrative where wisdom emerges and recovers all her splendor.
This narrative emphasizes that wisdom is not synonymous with suffering or lack; rather, it is portrayed as the gateway to true happiness. The scriptures highlight the importance of wisdom in achieving joy. As Maya Angelou wisely said, “When you know better, do better.” The reality is that we possess more knowledge than our actions might suggest. Our Creator generously bestows the gift of wisdom upon those who seek a relationship with Him.
No matter what is delivered from the pulpit on Sundays, discussed during Wednesday Bible studies, or played on the radio during our commutes, engaging in a conversation with God about our life stories unveils themes of love, trauma, folly, passion, and the empowerment to navigate toward wiser choices and boundaries. A treasure trove of wisdom is accessible when we find stillness at the Tree of Life.
Often, the things we believe we cannot live without are not as vital as they seem. When we reflect on the divine potential for happiness, we realize that temporary pleasures like sugar and rum cannot truly fulfill us.
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