Joaquim Mohsen

I find myself with a pen in hand, driven by a desire to create. In my mind, words dance around, eager to form a story or convey a profound thought. As the pen presses onto the paper, I strain to think of a pithy saying, only to realize that all the best ones have already been taken. This is the inevitable conclusion of thousands of years of human writing: there is really no such thing as ‘new.’ Rather than striving for originality, writers should focus on sharing timeless truths in their unique voices. This approach helps avoid the pitfalls that have ensnared many before them, such as imitation or false profundity.

Throughout history, every generation has had its prophets — voices that call out, urging people to heed the wisdom they have gathered. These individuals often have a burning desire to share what they have received, driven by a pure-hearted intention to enlighten others. The best prophets, however, learn to control this urge, recognizing that not everything needs to be shared with the world. They develop the discernment to distinguish true wisdom from foolishness. Yet, some become enamored with the allure of the “new.” Instead of acknowledging the value of the wisdom that has come before, they consider themselves more evolved and enlightened. They repurpose the same types of foolishness and misguided ideas their predecessors have offered, packaging them as novel and recently discovered insights for the masses.

It becomes clear what happens next: they delude themselves into thinking they are gods, possessing knowledge that no one else knows, a wisdom only they have discovered. In their quest for originality, they fail to recognize that they have fallen into the same trap as many before them. They become “false” prophets, proclaiming foolishness and lies as wisdom and truth. I speak to this not as one who judges others, but as someone who has seen the log in my own eye. It’s a humbling realization, understanding that even with the best intentions, we can be misled by our desire to offer something unique.

On the other hand, some may feel paralyzed by the realization that there is nothing new under the sun to share. They may succumb to despair and futility, questioning the point of repeating what has already been said. The answer lies in the necessity of every generation hearing these timeless truths. While these messages may have been conveyed countless times before, they have never been expressed by you. Each voice adds a unique perspective, a fresh interpretation that can resonate in new and meaningful ways. This is why it’s essential to continue sharing wisdom, even if it feels familiar.

I speak not as one noticing the speck in my brother’s eyes, but as one who has seen the log in my own. Those who try to fly to heaven are swiftly struck down, and those who sit in silence are lost in the tide. The key is not to strive endlessly for originality but to speak and write with purpose. Share what needs to be said, and direct it to those who need to hear it. In doing so, we honor the timeless wisdom that has guided humanity and contribute our own unique voices to the ongoing conversation.