Education Is An Investment in Yourself

copyright 2005 by Dr. William G. Covington, Jr.

An education is an investment that takes both time and money. It's an intangible commodity, but well worth the cost. At least that's the opinion of Benjamin Franklin who wrote, "If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him. An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."

Education is more than formal schooling. It is holistic, encompassing all of life. Everyone you meet knows something you don't know. We are all unique windows on the world. We learn by being observant of other people, humble and willing to connect with something other than ourselves. The Swiss writer Jean-Antoine Petit-Senn (1792-1870) noted as much when he wrote, "The wisest man may always learn something from the humblest peasant."

Acquiring wisdom has to do with attitude. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," we're told in Proverbs 9:10a. An education is attained through observation and engagement. Being aware is at the heart of learning.

American philanthropist Peter Cooper (1791-1883) opined, "Neither piety, virtue, nor liberty can long flourish in a community where the education of youth is neglected." That is to say, everyone has a vested interest since we're all connected through out interactions.
Education goes beyond the ability to increase one's income. Studies reveal that the more education one has, usually the higher one's salary. But the richer meaning of an education is that it enhances your quality of life. It enables you to think thoughts you would not otherwise be able to think.

Nineteenth century clergyma
Sylvester Scovel talked about the importance of learning truth, i.e., the way things really are and being able to adapt accordingly. He wrote, "To know the laws of God in nature and revelation, and then to fashion the affections and will into harmony with those laws--this is education."

An education cost something, but the return on the investment of time and money is well worth it. Education isn't a drudgery, but an exciting lifelong adventure. Every time you learn something new you grow. Investing in education is investing in yourself and the people who will be influenced positively by you.