"التعليم هو أفضل زاد للشيخوخة"

The essence of this saying is pretty straightforward: investing in learning and knowledge now will pay off immensely in the future. Think about it like this: the skills and wisdom you acquire through education are assets that will continue to benefit you as you grow older. They can't be taken away, and they'll always be useful, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

Historically, this advice has roots in ancient philosophy. Aristotle, the famous Greek philosopher, is often credited with variations of this idea. In his time, there was a strong emphasis on the value of education—not just for personal development but for its long-term benefits. In a world where life was more precarious, people understood that what you learned could help you navigate life's uncertainties.

Now, let's look at a real-life example. Consider someone like Warren Buffett. He's known for his wisdom in investing, but what many people don’t realize is how much he attributes his success to his lifelong commitment to learning. Even in his 90s, Buffett spends about 80% of his day reading and thinking. His education didn't stop when he left school; it’s been a continuous process throughout his life. This dedication to learning has allowed him to adapt to changing markets and make informed decisions that have kept his investment strategies relevant over the decades.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by cultivating a habit of learning. This doesn’t mean you have to go back to school or earn another degree—although that can be part of it. Instead, commit to being curious. Read books, take courses, attend workshops, listen to podcasts. The key is to make learning a regular part of your routine.

Imagine you’re in your 30s, hitting a bit of a career plateau. You feel stuck, and maybe even a little worried about the future. But what if you started taking night classes in something you’re passionate about, or something that could give you an edge in your field? Over time, you’d not only gain new skills but also new perspectives. Maybe you’d discover a new career path altogether, or perhaps you’d just become a better, more versatile version of yourself. Either way, you’d be setting yourself up for a more fulfilling and secure old age.

Let’s put this into a more relatable scenario. Think about your grandparents. Maybe they didn't have the opportunity to get a formal education. Their lives were probably tougher because of it. Now, think about the older individuals you know who are always reading, taking classes, or learning new hobbies. They seem more engaged with life, don't they? They often have interesting things to say and a certain resilience. It’s not a coincidence. Their ongoing commitment to learning has kept their minds sharp and their spirits high.

So, next time you’re tempted to binge-watch a series for the third time, think about picking up a book or signing up for an online course instead. Your future self will thank you. After all, the knowledge you gain today is the best provision for whatever tomorrow might bring.