Let the Fool Have the Stage: Why Wisdom Doesn’t Perform.

There’s a scripture that whispers through the noise of public spectacle: “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself.” — Proverbs 26:4

It’s a reminder that not every invitation to chaos deserves a RSVP. In a world where clowns, jousters, and fools thrive on performance, the emotionally intelligent do something radical: they choose silence, discernment, and dignity.

"Never argue with a fool, onlookers may not be able to tell the difference."

🎭 The Scene: A Fall Afternoon in Chicago

It was one of those crisp Midwest days where the wind carries both attitude and poetry. Maya, known for her calm presence and sharp intuition, stepped out of a café in the West Loop after meeting with a creative client. Her tailored coat caught the breeze, her scent was soft sandalwood, and her energy was grounded.

As she turned onto the sidewalk, a man brushed past her and dropped his coffee. He spun around, eyes wide with indignation.

“Watch where you’re going!” he barked — loud enough to turn heads.

He puffed up like a peacock in a parking lot, gesturing wildly, performing for the crowd that had begun to gather. His voice rose. His words sharpened. He wanted a scene. He wanted Maya to step into the ring.

But Maya didn’t.

She looked at him. Then at the crowd. Then back at herself.

She adjusted her coat, offered a soft “I hope your day gets better,” and walked away.

No rebuttal. No spectacle. No need to prove anything.

The man kept talking — to no one in particular now. His performance had lost its partner. The crowd shifted their gaze from chaos to calm. The stage dimmed.

Later, Maya would write in her journal: “I didn’t lose my peace. I didn’t trade my dignity for a moment of dominance. I let the fool have the stage—and I kept my crown.”

 "I let the fool have the stage—and I kept my crown."

The Lesson: Fools Need an Audience. Wisdom Doesn’t.

Fools perform because they need validation. They thrive on reaction, on chaos, on the illusion of control. But emotionally intelligent people? They don’t audition for approval. They don’t joust for dominance. They know that peace is power, and silence is strategy.

To walk away is not weakness—it’s mastery.

To disengage is not cowardice—it’s clarity.

To let the fool have the stage is to remind the world that not every act deserves applause.  

👑 The Crown’s Code: How to Handle a Public Fool Without Losing Yourself

If you find yourself tempted to respond, to defend, to match energy with someone who’s clearly performing—pause. Ask yourself: Is this a conversation or a circus? Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do… is exit stage left.

Tier 1: The Fool’s Fuel

• Reaction is the fool’s oxygen.

• Attention is their applause.

• Ego is their script.

Tier 2: The Crown’s Code

1. Pause Before You React Take a breath.

-Reaction is the fool’s fuel. Reflection is your power.

2. Assess the Intent

-Is this person seeking resolution—or attention? If it’s the latter, disengage.

3. Protect Your Energy

-You don’t owe anyone a performance. Your peace is not a public commodity.

4. Respond with Grace or Not at All

-A calm “I wish you well” or silence can be louder than any rebuttal.

5. Exit the Stage

-Walk away. Let the fool perform alone. The crowd will forget the act- but they'll remember your poise.

Let Keyola Consultants Help You Refine Your Presence

As I prepare to close this chapter, I’m reminded that legacy isn’t loud — it’s lasting. And sometimes, the most powerful act is walking away with grace.

This story isn’t just about Maya. It’s about every woman who’s ever been baited into a performance that didn’t serve her spirit. It’s about choosing peace over spectacle, dignity over dominance.

So let the fool have the stage.

You’ve got a crown to protect.

At Keyola Consultants, we believe your presence is sacred. Whether you're navigating public spaces, building your brand, or curating emotionally intelligent environments, we help you show up with clarity, elegance, and discernment.

We specialize in:

- Personal and professional branding rooted in authenticity.

- Emotional intelligence coaching for creatives and leaders.

- Event curation that honors your values and aesthetic.

- Writing and storytelling that transforms everyday moments into legacy.

Ready to elevate your presence and protect your peace? Let’s co-create something powerful. Visit Keyola Consultants or reach out for a consultation.