An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less. Arthur Bloch, American Author (b. 1948-)
I recently watched a master choreographer in rehearsal, and it changed how I see intelligence.
They spoke English, but I didn’t understand the language. No explanations—just murmurs like “shoulder back” or “turn your head.” Somehow, everyone knew. A tiny cue passed between expert bodies, and the entire piece transformed. I was astonished by that fluency—the precision, the trust.
We’re taught to value intelligence we can explain or measure. But in that studio, intelligence lived beyond words—shaped by years of practice, instinct honed through repetition.
It was niche intelligence at work, raw, embodied and magnificent. And once you notice it, you see it everywhere: the mechanic who listens to engines, the chef who tastes and knows, the friend who reads unspoken emotions.
What moved me most was watching experts remain students—adjusting, refining, still learning.
Intelligence hides in plain sight. In a world that profits from distraction, listen for the quiet expertise all around you.
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Stay Well,
Eileen
We often talk about the science and art of nursing. I recently had an ill family member. Seeing those with the art of comfort was so reassuring to me and those who did not have it were so clean. But could I point to it? Little things like taking the empty cups, touching patient, eye contact, bring family a cup of water. But those are outward signs of the bigger talent for art of nursing.
I just had a similar experience with a gravely ill friend… watching masterful nurses in action- it is a beautiful think to watch. Thank you!