Ever since I can remember, whenever times were lean, as they are now for many people, the first thought is to cut back on spending. Now, it is reasonable to think about that. All of us should have some kind of a budget plan, and trim excess spending wherever we can so that earnings = more than expenses, at the end of the month. This is not a lecture on saving money, however. Rather it is a commentary on wise spending of money when it comes to school budgets, and even personal spending.
Music and Art in the schools are always the first departments to receive cuts in funding. In my opinion, they should be the last to be compromised. Music and Art are exactly what are needed to energize us and to make life worthwhile. For children, training in music will always stand them in good stead, as will the practice of art and the knowledge of the masters. Yes, some of those students may become professional performers or practitioners. Culture needs music and art, plain and simple.
Civilization requires a knowledge of the past and it is always fun to look at the “History of Ideas,” a field of thought (academic discipline) that was developed by a friend of mine, Florence Petherick, Ph.D., (who has now passed on). She was fascinated by ideas, and their origins and development, over time. We are all interested in what other people say and that is the reason that many books of quotations are sold. FDR said, “There is nothing to fear but fear itself.” Who wouldn’t remember that statement? There are many sayings, even old-time Yankee ones, that shape our thinking and help us to put things into perspective.
“A penny saved is a penny earned,” is one of those frequent remarks. What people do not realize is that in an inflationary economy, such as this one, it is not a good idea to hoard money. For me, personally, I would rather have a new book than a new piece of clothing. We all have our priorities. My point is this: Do not neglect music, art or literature because of the current financial state of the nation. In our own small way, we each need to encourage the arts, and our own knowledge of them, by continuing to buy books and also encourage our local libraries to acquire new educational materials. If you have the chance, vote for keeping music and arts in the schools!
A nice birthday gift that is easy to send is an amazon gift card in any amount from $10. to $500. that is redeemable at amazon.com or endless.com We are not always aware of someone’s taste in music or books, and the gift card allows them to choose what they would like. This is just a random thought that seems to fit in well with what I am thinking, this morning. Below, I have provided a link so that you can check out this idea for yourself.
Be well.
Patricia
