A Global Perspective, Education, and Optimism

Last night, Josh and I enjoyed the pleasure of attending a speech by Dr. Condoleezza Rice at Trinity. Her speech touched on many important things, including foreign affairs, the importance of education, and the need for a renewed optimism in America. When she took the podium, she was a calm, easy going, and gentle presence. But as she spoke, her eloquent words demonstrated that she is also a brilliant and empowered woman and educator.

One of my favorite things that Dr. Rice really drove home was the privilege and power of higher education. She knew her audience and highlighted the fact that university students, especially at private liberal arts schools, tend to feel a sense of entitlement regarding their education. She reminded us that higher education must not be taken for granted. Many brilliant minds do not have the same privilege that we have enjoyed to gain access to higher education. We do not deserve it any more than they do, we have not earned it any more than they have, we were just blessed enough to be given the opportunity for it. 

Education is a gift that we must appreciate and it is a gift that should motivate us. Education should motivate us to challenge ourselves, to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones, to find ways to serve others, and to find and pursue our passion.

The audience as a whole, regardless of political sides, was in awe and totally inspired by this amazing woman.