The growth of years brings the opportunity for growth in experience, perspective, and understanding. Over time, this can lead to what might best be called practical wisdom. The Greek philosopher Aristotle recognized this wisdom as a form of intelligence distinct from that born of theory and study. The person of practical wisdom (phronesis) knows how to handle himself or herself in the real world: when to act, and when to stay quiet; how to negotiate a solution to conflicts; how to take in the many features of a situation and respond appropriately, avoiding rash extremes.
— Drew Leder, Spiritual Passages