This quote, “Education is teaching our children to desire the right things,” encapsulates the idea that the primary goal of education is not just to impart knowledge, but also to shape desires, values, and priorities. It emphasizes that education should not only be about acquiring facts or skills, but also about learning to value the right things – things that are good, beneficial, and constructive for the individual and society.

In this context, “the right things” could refer to virtues such as honesty, integrity, kindness, and diligence, or to goals such as wisdom, personal growth, and the betterment of society. It could also refer to a love for learning itself. By teaching children to desire these things, education can help them become not just knowledgeable, but also ethical and compassionate individuals.

Applying this idea in today’s world, it suggests that our educational systems should not just focus on academic achievement, but also on character education and moral development. It’s not enough to produce students who excel in math or science; we also need to foster students who care about their communities, who act with integrity, and who strive for personal growth.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder that learning is not just about acquiring new knowledge or skills, but also about becoming a better person. It encourages us to pursue not just the things that we want, but the things that we should want – things that will help us grow, contribute to society, and lead fulfilling lives. It suggests that the true measure of our education is not just what we know, but what we value and desire.