Taken Back

My wife took me back in time today.

She was listening to some audio for her French class and all of a sudden, certain parts of the language came back to me. I hadn't had a French class since the early 80s so it was curious that I was able to follow along with the pronunciations. I softly repeated the words and even predicted what might come next.

"Did you take French?" she asked.

I thought she knew that already, but I answered that I had.

"Will I ever be able to take something you haven't?" she pondered. "I'll never be able to measure up."

That was a blow from left field. I hadn't been trying to compare myself to her or my education to hers. I thought I was simply remembering some of the drills. In short order, feelings of dread came over me, the same why they had in 9th grade. Back then I can remember not wanting anyone to know I got good grades. It wasn't hip or cool to achieve. I wish they weren't, but those feelings are still strong. Hide your achievement. Don't let anyone know you might be smart. Brains are for nerds.

Only an hour earlier, I was having a great time helping my son with his homework, telling him how I hope he can overcome some early setbacks and prove to himself that he can do his best all the time. He was there during my time travel, but I hope he didn't come to the same mistaken conclusions I did all those years ago.

When did it become the right thing to do to avoid a good education? Why are people comfortable with just doing okay, when achievement is within their reach? How much more can be done for the good of the individual and the good of the group if we just lived up to our potential? Despite the challenges, I will help my son manifest his greatest potential and maximize his gifts. Maybe it's not hip, but it's the right thing to do.

He could start the next trend. We'll call it brainy cool.