American comedian and actor George Burns, who was renowned for his wit and wisdom, frequently offered life and success advice that struck a chord with a large number of people. He taught many important lessons, one of which was the value of having a strong desire to learn and knowing when to use that knowledge effectively.

Learn as you would gather tools for your toolbox. Every new knowledge or ability you gain is a useful instrument that can aid in problem-solving or task completion. However, acquiring knowledge is insufficient; knowing when and how to apply it is essential, just as having a lot of tools does not imply that you know how to construct something.

According to Burns, learning quickly entails being flexible and open-minded throughout one's life. There is always something new to learn and apply to your comprehension of the world in a world where information and technology are always changing. This desire to learn keeps you adaptable and responsive, which enables you to keep improving.

But wisdom comes from knowing when to apply this information wisely. It's about using knowledge and experience to make well-informed decisions instead of relying solely on theoretical concepts or unprocessed data. In addition to teaching us what to do, wisdom also teaches us when to refrain from acting; there are instances when waiting or thinking things through is the best course of action.

Essentially, George Burns' lesson promotes a well-rounded outlook on life: be selective about when and how to apply new knowledge while still maintaining an open mind and curiosity. This harmony between knowledge and discernment can result in more deliberate choices and actions, which will ultimately improve our lives and our relationships with others.