"La prudencia no es más que experiencia, que el tiempo en igualdad otorga por igual a todos los hombres en aquellas cosas a las que se aplican por igual."

Prudence, in simple terms, is wisdom that comes from experience. It's something everyone has the chance to gain if they spend enough time on something. Just think of it as the outcome of consistent effort and learning over time.

When this was said, the idea was to highlight that prudence isn't reserved for the few or the fortunate. It’s available to everyone. It's a reminder that with equal effort, we all have the potential to become wise in the areas we dedicate ourselves to. Whether it was said in ancient times, when many people believed wisdom came only from old age or high status, or even in modern times, the message remains the same: you get out what you put in.

To make this real, let’s look at a practical example. Imagine Sarah, who wants to become a skilled carpenter. She starts with zero knowledge, just a curiosity and determination. She spends hours each day learning about wood types, practicing cuts, sanding techniques, and making a lot of mistakes. Over time, Sarah's hands become more steady, her eye for detail sharpens, and her projects improve. Years pass, and one day, Sarah creates a piece of furniture so splendid that it leaves people in awe. Sarah’s prudence, her wisdom in carpentry, is a direct result of the time and effort she invested. Each splinter and miscut was a lesson, and collectively, they made her wise in her craft.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying what you want to be prudent in. Is it a skill, a profession, or even a personal trait like patience or empathy? Once you know, commit time to it. Don't get discouraged by initial failures or slow progress. Remember, every moment you spend working on it is a step towards gaining that experience-based wisdom. It’s like planting a tree—at first, it’s just a seed in the ground, but with time and care, it grows strong and tall.

Let’s dive into a relatable scenario. Picture John, a new employee at a tech company. John wants to move up the ladder and become a project manager. He doesn’t have experience, but he watches his seniors, takes notes, stays late to learn the ropes, and doesn’t shy away from asking questions. Months turn into years, and John starts handling small tasks, then bigger ones, and eventually, he leads a team. His prudence in managing projects is evident, not because he was born with it, but because he earned it through consistent effort and learning. Each project, successful or not, taught him valuable lessons.

So, take heart. Prudence is the result of your dedication and time. It's a fair game—put in the work, and you’ll reap the wisdom. Whether you're learning to cook, striving to be a better friend, or aiming to excel in your career, remember that prudence is within reach. Equal time and equal application will make you wise in whatever you choose to pursue. Just keep at it, and let experience be your guide.