Knowledge is important in being successful at schools,and certain careers; however, it is far from being the “key to success”. Memorizing facts, dates, and other information can only impress your teachers and make a mark on your report card. While those things are important, knowledge alone won’t make you successful at life. Some of the poorest homeless, most extreme addicts, top criminals, cruelest parents, mediocre neighbors, and the severest mentally ill people are geniuses*. They have the knowledge, but they don’t have the success. According to you, knowledge is key; but that is just not true in this world.

Instead, what is needed are things that one cannot find in a textbook: empathy, compassion, tolerance, high self-esteem, confidence, good coping skills, problem solving abilities, and some good old common sense. Without these things, knowledge is worth nothing other than a good grade

*I just had to make it clear that I think none of these people are bad or cruel. Addiction and mental illness personally run in my family, so I’ve seen how wonderful a person with these disadvantages can be. In addition, one of my dad’s friends is an ex-criminal, and he is the kindest man I have ever met. The homeless I have come in contact with are just the same – wonderful, giving, and caring.