It felt historic to be the first in my family to wear a black cap and gown to graduate from college.
My parents grew up in a tradition of hard work and everyday living, and they provided encouragement and optimism during difficult times, helping me achieve my goals. Education has always been the key to success for me. Since beginning my formal education in 1970, in a program known as “Head Start,” I have discovered new worlds and relationships that have guided me throughout my life as I earned a master’s degree in taxation from the University of Tulsa.
Not everyone has access to formal education. But we can all continue our lifelong education. If you've read many of my articles, you'll know the desire I have for reading. Yes, reading is a very simple form of lifelong learning.
Authors who have experienced life in a particular area of life or in the world have taken the time to record those issues on the pages of their books. What if I told you these books are free? Does that make you want to continue your education? The best way to take advantage of free educational materials is to go to your local public library.
Southeastern Oklahoma is very fortunate to have such a treasure of historical and contemporary books available to anyone who wants to read them. The Southeast Oklahoma Library System is a network of affiliated libraries that share resources and books, giving patrons the opportunity to read classic literature and biographies of successful people who started life just like them. It offers.
My parents told me that “nothing in life is free,” so I was pleasantly surprised to be given a library card for free. With the understanding that borrowed books would be returned within a reasonable period of time, a vast array of educational resources was available to me.
Another resource for non-formal education is an online platform called “The Great Courses.” This platform hosts university-level classes taught in a lecture format by some of the world's greatest professors. So far, I have utilized courses in areas such as history, business, personal growth, music, and religion.
You are limited only by the time you want to contribute to the pursuit of your knowledge goals. Based on the number of courses I have taken. I could have gotten a PhD from the curriculum.
My favorite historical president is Abraham Lincoln. Anyone who knows me will attest to this fact. His poor upbringing and limited formal education would have stunted the development of anyone without his desire to learn. Lincoln read by the fireplace because his log cabin did not have proper lighting. Lincoln pursued his career as a lawyer, believing that his future would be better with his education. He borrowed law books and taught himself, eventually passing the Illinois bar exam and building a successful career as a lawyer.
The real benefits of self-education came in the form of his wisdom, which was demonstrated many times during the Civil War. Lincoln's wisdom served him well, as he often quoted entire passages from historical poems and the Bible when dealing with difficult situations.
Another key to education is talking to others who know more than you. I've gained important wisdom and insight by talking to more senior business people and thought leaders. Listening to the likes of Jim Rohn, Zig Ziglar, Darren Hardy, etc., I was able to develop a mindset of leadership that has served me well throughout my life. Many of these leaders watch presentations submitted for free on YouTube. To get the valuable lessons contained in a video mix, you need to be disciplined enough not to miss fluffy material.
One more thing about libraries. Even though today's libraries are technology centers, we too often position our institutions as repositories of books. McAlester is blessed to have a vast library filled with learning in all its forms. Additionally, the library's highly qualified staff offers free training on resume writing and other job skills. If you wish to take advantage of these services, you must be willing and disciplined to participate. The benefits of this activity are far greater than the time spent today.
We are currently raising funds for a complete renovation of McAlester Library. We are nearing the goal where construction will begin. However, if you would like to invest in this learning institution, please contact the library staff to inquire about the process. It's very simple and any contributions are welcome.
If you want to provide for the education of your children or grandchildren, consult a paid CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ expert to create a plan that provides the next generation of your family with the resources they need to be effective for decades to come. Please support. Technology will continue to advance and we will need knowledge to stay relevant in the world. Now is the time to help the next generation realize a bigger, better, bolder future. Please consider supporting the McAlester Library renovation project. You will have an immediate and profound impact on the future of many Pittsburgh County residents. See you at the library!
Editor's note: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as tax advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results in any investment. Investments involve risks such as loss of principal.
Registered Principal Securities offered through Broker/Dealer, Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Jimmy J. Williams is an Investment Advisor Representative and Registered Investment Advisor with Compass Capital Management, LLC. Cambridge and Compass Capital Management, LLC are not affiliated. 321 S. 3rd, Ste. 4, McAlester, OK 74501. Cambridge does not provide legal or tax advice. Please consult your legal and tax advisors for specific estate and income tax planning strategies.
