What if...

It's back to school for me. And I don't mean Rodney Dangerfield style either. Thank goodness. :)

Winter break went way too fast. The spring term at Pitt starts tomorrow, and it's back to the books for me. I'll have a mix of classes this term. Enough to keep me busy.

Getting ready for school again got me to thinking. (Which can sometimes be dangerous...)

What if...

What would happen if we could all go to school and keep learning for the rest of our lives?

Some people might think it would be torture, but I think it would be so much fun to take, say, at least one class of our choice, every term at a university for as many years as we like--for free. While working and contributing to society in a positive way, of course. You know, giving back a little.

Can you imagine what the US population would be like if we set our society up so that people could do this?

I would think that, not only would people be more educated, obviously, but I bet they'd be a lot happier too. The satisfaction and fulfillment of learning subjects related to personal interests could be limitless. In turn, it would allow people to contribute to our society more too. If they put their knowledge to good use, that is.

We have programs for nursing degrees that educate students at reduced prices, sometimes extremely reduced prices, and in return, the students agree to put their education to work for a certain period of time.

The incentives are there for anyone who is interested in taking advantage of the opportunity. Why couldn't we do this with other areas as well? We could, if our government was set up to include programs for various educational opportunities, instead of only the ones that we're in dire need of to keep our society functioning. With nursing, because of the supply and demand ratio, the field offers opportunity that is very attractive.

We have only to change our priorities in government regarding our vision for our country, and we could have the same opportunities for other areas as well. It's a matter of commitment to making it happen.

Do I sound like an idealist? Or worse...a politician? *gasp* Probably not a realist.

Well, it was just a thought.

Hey, maybe I should run for president... (You see, I told you it can be dangerous when I think)

Okay, everyone have a terrific week. I'll try to get back on schedule and get in here mid-week to say hi and bug everyone. You all try to behave. I'll be doing my best here. *grins*

Lee