The old saying is, “The Rising Tide Floats All Boats.” This makes a wonderful-sounding political sound bite, but as usual, the devil is in the details.

The first consideration is whether all people have a boat and whether it is sound. Leaking boats don’t float very well or for very long. So much for the boat, now let’s look at the tide that is rising. How high will it rise and for how long? Tides in Florida typically rise two to three feet each cycle. Tides in Maine can rise as high as 27 feet. It is necessary to know what area you are in and, if necessary, move. This is the original usage of the word “woke.” As in, one should be aware of their surroundings - they should be woke.

If you are fortunate enough to live in, or move to, an area with a rapidly rising tide, meaning increasing employment opportunities, you need that boat. You need to grasp those opportunities, and education is what prepares you for your boat. Education comes in two phases. The first is your formal K-12 schooling. Then comes everything you do after high school graduation: college, trade school, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or, sadly, on-the-couch TV viewing.

Education is a lifelong endeavor. You should be constantly improving your skill set. The better your skills, the better your boat and the employment that comes with the boat.