It's not too late to get the education to pursue dreams

"… Wisdom preserves the life of its possessor."

-- Ecclesiastes 7:12 (NIV)

School days are upon us again. When this season of the year approaches many of us reach into our memory banks for our first experiences at school or those of our children. A friend of mine has a return-to-school routine. Each year she sings the song "School Days" to her children, and now via phone to her grandchildren, the first day of school.

For some the memories have faded and the importance of school has drifted away. Others still have some thoughts about a higher level of education but time and age have shattered their dream.

A friend of mine in her 40s just returned to school. She figured she wasn't getting any younger and it isn't too late to accomplish her goals.

I'll never forget my graduation day from nursing school; we cheered when our gray-haired classmate reached the center of the stage and held out her hand to receive her diploma. She was in her mid-60s and was finally fulfilling her life-long dream of becoming a nurse.

Maybe you're struggling with the idea of returning to school, but are feeling too old. Maybe you just retired and think it's too late. Maybe financial commitments are standing in your way; for this there are many programs, grants, scholarships and forms of help available through the financial aid office of your local college.

Written within the pages of the Old Testament of the Bible is the story of Moses. After killing a man to defend another, Moses fled into the desert. For 40 years Moses worked in the desert herding sheep and learning about the desert climate. When he was 80 years old God called him to go back to Egypt and free the people from their bondage in slavery. God still had a plan to use Moses in his later years. He still has a plan for each of us too.

Education keeps us young and alive; it's been proven that it strengthens our brain cells and helps us stay mentally alert. Learning sharpens our creativity, expands our personal growth and helps us gain confidence we need to move forward and fulfill our lifelong goals. Opportunities are available until we take our last breath. I understand going back to school isn't for everyone, but if you've been holding back from expanding your horizons, start anew by taking one class and see if it makes a difference in your life.