If you’ve ever taken the time to do a study on our society as a whole, you will find that many of the downfalls of communities are due to a deficiency of knowledge in one area or another. Statistics have shown that where there are low levels of education, there are high levels of incarceration, teen pregnancy and the like. The infestation of drugs, violence and other unhealthy lifestyle choices can be traced to unawareness among our populous. Simply stated, ignorance produces impotence and contrary to popular belief what you don’t know can hurt you.
With this understanding, it’s important for us to grasp the significance of knowledge in our own lives and attain as much of it as possible. The acquisition of knowledge should not be a passive pastime but a passionate pursuit. There are many avenues you can take to acquire the information you need. For some, it’s a formal college education; for other’s it’s the street smarts that you learn surviving in a hostile environment. Education however is not limited to a college degree. Every experience you encounter provides an opportunity for you to learn, change and grow. Knowledge is not prejudice. Just because someone knows more then you doesn’t make them better then you; they just have more options because they have more data.
As much as I believe in higher learning, unfortunately most academic institutions don’t teach you how to have self confidence or self esteem. Knowledge about who you are as a person comes from the affirmation of loving parents, a coach, teacher, pastor, or mentor and most importantly, you’re Creator. This type of knowledge can take you far beyond the boundaries of any Ph.D.
I want to challenge you to seek after knowledge. Each day all of us have the choice to be educated or entertained. When faced with this decision, you should evaluate which option will give you the most return on your investment. So make the right choice. Choose knowledge.
P.S. Remember most library cards are still free!