Back in October 2008 I wrote to you about my struggles in college with math. I am still plugging away slowly but surely. I have learned a few things about math and about why math is so hard for me.
First, let me just say, not all math is difficult. That is right! Only certain kinds, the areas I don’t use or find beneficial to my immediate life are difficult. What I can do is math that affects my money. My money is something that is useful to have information about. So if you asked me to calculate the percentage of APR on my credit card no problem. I am finding it increasingly more difficult as the credit card companies like BankofAmerica double dip us to rake up our money. This I can do, I can protect my financial interests.
But that “other math” is the real brainteaser. For example, I was hit with farads and henrys this week. What the heck are farads or henrys? And exponents, squares, cubes or radicals can send my head spinning so fast I am amazed! So what I have had to do is what Bill Murray talks about in the movie What about Bob?, I have to take baby steps. Little tiny snail like steps but it is a forward motion and you know what! I am doing it! Oh sure farads and henrys still have me stumped but I am doing it!
Trying this new thing for me has been the best thing that has happened in my life time. Whether I can finish or not (I only have until July 25th for this mess to be over) I have learned more than math calculation. I have rethought my direction and this life choice has affected my outlook as I face the Golden Years. It has taught me confidence, broaden my horizons. There is a lot more to this than math its application.
My “to do” list of things I want to do before I die has been revisited and now been meant. I need to move on to the next chapter and find new goals. There is still so much to do and so little time left to do it in. First on my new list is I have been cordially invited to go my twin grandchildren’s kindergarten graduation in May. It took me all of 24 hrs to have a plane ticket in place so I could be there. An added bonus is meeting my son’s girlfriend while I am there. They, the grandchildren, are an important part of my life as I enter the golden years. To know them, to be a part of their life IS one of the most important things I want to do before I die. You just don’t get a “do over” in life if you miss them growing up!!!
And so when and IF I actually complete the required math for my degree program (whether I pass it or not) I am already feeling very complete in life. Growing older is so rewarding there are so many things to learn and experience! Ah, jeux de vive!