You've probably heard this before, but...

[malcs]

I was helping out at church today in the kitchen. I happily told the ladies there about my experience with taking my first CLEP test yesterday. One of the ladies then said, "You know what my two sons say about going that route?" and she proceeded to give me a big 'thumbs down' gesture. Well, it happened two more times, I guess just so I would be sure to understand that testing was somehow, a lower form of education. I know she meant well (at least, I hope so), but it kinda took the wind out of my sails.

All I know is that after I studied for 2 weeks preparing for the U.S. History CLEP (without the help of a professor), I can truthfully say that the knowledge I gained is mine to keep. It meant something to me because I chose to study it and began at my skill level, only doing what I needed to add to my learning. I didn't have to learn it all over from the beginning and have to write papers about topics that didn't interest me.

Just wanted to get that off my shoulders. I need to forgive and forget now.

Keep your head up!

So, I guess this authority figure sits around the house talking with her sons about how stupid other people are. Anyone who discourages someone from learning is lacking education themselves. Why would a grown woman have to even mention what her sons think about your method of learning?

I am not sure that you need to forgive people like this. You just blast right past them and keep going. Forgiving them means that they are in your mind longer than they need to be, making you feel bad about yourself. I would have turned it right back her and played out the following dialog:
You: "So, where did you go to school?",
Her: (answer)
You: "It's a good thing that there are options these days that allow people with complicated situations to attend college, isn't it?"
Her: "Oh, I'm sorry....",
You: "Well, I feel really good about the amount of progress I have been able to make and my (sons,parents,whatever) are really proud of me."


You would be doing her a favor by giving her some training in the consideration of others. People like this don't intend you harm you, but are unaware of their impact. The best thing that you can do is point it out to them in a friendly way while standing your ground.