Education: How does one define formal?

Formal education is not an end in itself. Every day we live is an opportunity, and likely a requirement, to learn and grow. This is a gift. Without formal education, which gives us achievements, such as in the fields of medicine, agriculture, engineering, history, the study of humanity, cultures and their religions, the world would be a very different place.

And even though not every path requires a college degree--think of all the jobs that can pave the way for an individual to have a satisfying and rewarding life, while providing a skill that everyone in a developed or developing society depends upon, such as plumbers, electricians, mechanics, the building trades--I am thankful that my parents wanted me to get a higher education and made it possible for me to do so. They wanted that for me, I recognized my own need for a college degree, and I didn't disappoint them. For decades now, paying for a college education is much more challenging than when I went to college. Of all the things that we might gain in life, one of the things that no one can take away is an education. It may not make one rich in dollars, but it makes one rich in so many ways that can not be measured in money. With thanks to my parents, Russell and Tena Hollis.

Photos: Here's a nice example of a skill/talent/gift passed along from generation to generation. This ash splint, swing-handle basket--most likely from one of the Native American woodland tribes of the northeastern or Great Lakes United States, e.g., MALISEET, PENOBSCOT, PASSAMAQUODDY, PEQUOT, MICMAC OR ONE OF THE OTHER UPPER EASTERN NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES--apparently sold sometime in the mid 20th century for $5.

Many, many hours, and the skill and gifts of the maker, went into gathering and preparing the material, and then weaving this fancy basket. It was most likely made for the tourist trade. Imagine, today, in 2018, what this basket would cost if someone were paid a living wage for making it. $360 minimum? The making of this basket is now considered strictly an art form, so one would be purchasing it as an example of woodlands Native American art. In the 19th century, this basket would have had the practical uses of gathering and storage. The Native American indigenous arts of basket making, pottery, weaving, adornment such as jewelry go back many centuries.