The Invaluable Investment in Education

Education stands as one of the most enduring investments one can make. Growing up, the phrase that continually resonated with me was, “They can never take away your education.” My early years unfolded in a hardworking neighborhood filled with new immigrants striving to make their mark in this remarkable country. My parents, no strangers to hard work themselves, juggled full-time jobs while also establishing small businesses to make both ends meet. Their unwavering dedication was all in an effort to provide their four children with a better life than they had.

They recognized my potential and were determined to invest in my education, even though the financial burden was substantial. Transitioning from a neighborhood public school where my peers looked like me to a rich, predominantly white private Jesuit school was a formidable challenge. My freshman year was marked by academic, spiritual and social hurdles, and I came dangerously close to failure. Yet, it was during these formative years that I began to understand why my parents had made this investment.

Looking back, those difficult high school experiences paved the way for a smoother college journey and professional career. These challenges strengthened me, fostering a deep appreciation for the value of education. Let me clarify that this isn’t an indictment of the public school system; there are exceptional public schools, and I’ve had the privilege to teach in many of them. However, the stark contrast of my particular situation underscored the significance of the educational foundation my parents had laid for me. Perhaps that was the catalyst that ignited my lifelong pursuit of being an educator—a calling from God.

What’s truly remarkable in today’s world is the accessibility of education. Educational options abound, and many are free. Whether it’s educational content on YouTube, thought-provoking podcasts, or prestigious institutions like MIT offering free online courses, the opportunities are limitless. One of the primary barriers to investing in your education now is time. Even the nuggets of wisdom we aspire to share on Faith, Finance, and Fatherhood can hopefully serve as the spark on your journey to financial freedom. Most importantly, once you’ve acquired knowledge, no one can strip it away from you. The next step is how you take action and apply that knowledge. 

Seek guidance from the Lord and pray for the next steps in your educational journey. Remember, education isn’t just an investment—it’s a gift from God that keeps on giving, empowering you to serve your purpose.

-HC