Do you ever dream of your school days?
I understand it’s not unusual to have weird dreams about those days even though it may have been decades since you concluded your formal education. A common theme is to be in class naked. I’ve never had that dream.
But I have had another school-themed dream that has snapped me to consciousness from a deep slumber, though not for many years. In my version, I show up to a class on finals day only to realize I’ve never been there before. I panic. A whole semester down the tubes.
This is back-to-school time. Not just for kids, either. Parents of younger children are going through a bittersweet period. They may miss the carefree days of summer with their kids, but they may also be celebrating a sort of liberation. Some of us may find ourselves with some time to ourselves. It’s a good time to focus on our educational needs.
We all have areas we can improve in. Perhaps you’d like to sharpen your writing skills so you can add some flair to your family history project. Maybe you’d like to be a better photographer. Or a more competent researcher. What do you want to be better at?
Make a pledge to yourself to do something about it in the year ahead. Check out your local adult education opportunities, such as offerings at community and senior centers, churches and historical societies. You may want to revisit my series of lessons on how to write a personal history. You can start here.
Don’t forget, too, that this is a perfect time to stock up on those “school supplies” you’ll need in the months ahead. A little planning now can save you money in the months ahead.
If you’re looking for a little video inspiration, check out this brief presentation to a roomful of genealogists by Chris Haley, nephew of Roots author Alex Haley. It’s different. I think his enthusiasm is refreshing. See if you agree.
P.S. This is the 100th post since launching "Passing It On" in February. Thanks to all of you who have supported this blog with comments and e-mails. You've made it all worthwhile.
Larry Lehmer is a personal biographer who helps people preserve their family histories. To learn more, visit his web site or e-mail him.
Flickr photo courtesy of Aprille.
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