We really want our kids, and our youth, to understand that one

Hear, O children of promise, the words of Tobias Harris, a warrior upon the courts of sport, yet also a teacher of the young, who declared: “We really want our kids, and our youth, to understand that one, knowledge is power, and two, you don’t have to be shy about being educated, and being ahead of the learning curve.” These words, though spoken by an athlete, echo like the wisdom of sages, for they reveal that true greatness is not only in strength of body, but in the might of the mind.

The origin of this saying lies in Harris’s work beyond the game, where he labors to inspire the next generation. He has seen how many youths, surrounded by temptations and distractions, shrink from learning, ashamed of standing apart from the crowd. Yet he calls them to courage: to see that education is no burden but a crown, that to be ahead is not arrogance but preparation, and that knowledge itself is the greatest power, stronger than wealth, stronger than fame, stronger even than physical strength.

Consider, O listener, the tale of Frederick Douglass. Born in chains, denied schooling, he risked punishment to learn the letters of the alphabet. Through knowledge, he discovered not only freedom of mind, but the path to freedom of body. He later declared, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” This is the same truth Harris now speaks: that knowledge is the weapon of the oppressed, the shield of the vulnerable, the key to unlock destiny.

Or recall the story of Malala Yousafzai, a young girl who faced bullets and violence for daring to seek education. She refused to be silenced, proclaiming that books and pens are stronger than weapons. The world listened, and she became a voice for millions. Here we see the lesson again: to be “ahead of the learning curve” is not shameful, but noble; not isolating, but liberating. To carry knowledge is to carry the torch that drives away the darkness.

Thus Harris’s words strike against the culture of mockery that sometimes scorns the studious. Too often the young are tempted to hide their gifts, to lower their heads so as not to stand apart. Yet he calls them to boldness: do not be shy, but stand tall in your education. For to lead, one must sometimes walk ahead; to shine, one must sometimes burn alone before others dare to light their lamps.

The lesson is clear: pursue knowledge, for it is the seed of all power. Do not shrink from being different if it means being wise. Remember that strength of mind will guide strength of body, and wisdom will outlast fleeting applause. The athletes, the rulers, the warriors—they may pass away. But the wise are remembered, their words carried across centuries. Knowledge is the only inheritance that thieves cannot steal and time cannot decay.

Practical actions lie within reach. Encourage your children to read, to ask questions, to delight in learning. When mocked for studying, stand firm, knowing you walk the path of giants. Seek mentors, books, and experiences that sharpen the mind. And above all, wear your education with pride, not with arrogance, but with the humility of one who knows that wisdom must be shared. For in sharing, knowledge becomes not only power, but light for all.

So let Tobias Harris’s words echo in your heart: knowledge is power, and to be educated is to be armed for life. Do not hide your wisdom, but let it shine. For the youth who embrace learning today will be the leaders who shape tomorrow, and their courage to be ahead of the curve shall lift nations from shadow into dawn.