I recently graduated from a private school, thanks to a government subsidy offered to indigent students. It was an emotional moment when I presented my diploma to my parents to thank them for the many sacrifices they have made in order to support my education.
Though I did not have to pay any tuition, there were many fees I still had to pay so I could enjoy the facilities of a private school. Projects and other school activities entailed more expenses, and my parents would end up borrowing money from friends and relatives just to provide for me. Sometimes I would save my allowance by skipping lunch at school and walking instead just to avoid asking my parents for extra money for school expenses.
'Armed with my education, I can now work and help them provide for the family too.'
As a housewife caring for three children, my mother found it very difficult to make ends meet with the meagre salary my father makes as a driver. What we lack financially, they more than make up for by raising us in the Church and making sure I attend seminary.
In seminary, I learned that knowledge is eternal and that Heavenly Father wants His children to learn and become successful. That is why no matter how hard things got, I held on to my goal of pursuing both my secular and religious education. Going without food, staying up late to study, walking long distances are all nothing compared to what Christ suffered for us. I drew strength from the Atonement and the love the Lord shows me through my family and my friends.
Like Jesus who sought to glorify the Father, I have worked hard to bring honor to my parents. Armed with my education, I can now work and help them provide for the family too.
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“The Savior of the world instructed: “Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith. “He added: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”
Beyond our study of spiritual matters, secular learning is also essential. Often the future is unknown; therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. Statistics reveal that at some time, because of the illness or death of a husband or because of economic necessity, you may find yourself in the role of financial provider. Some of you already occupy that role. I urge you to pursue your education—if you are not already doing so or have not done so—that you might be prepared to provide if circumstances necessitate such.”
– Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You”