I want this bad

Well, tonight I went to my first class at the University. Elementary Algebra,My last college was 30 years ago,community college for an Associates Degree.(I didn't have to take algebra but college mathematics instead) I didn't go to high school, because I didn't have the opportunity. the 8th grade was my last complete year.1972. the last time I had Algebra was 5&6th grade 1969 the same year the astronauts landed on the moon.I will say, that the teachers, I did have, were very good teachers,and I never forgot their gifts of education that where freely given to me.I only dreamed of going to the University. I never thought I was capable,for various reasons, pick one: money intelligence, self confidence,......
But after serving on the campaign with Col.Jack Jackson,along with my life experience I learned that I am capable. I think all ya need is at least one person who believes in you to achieve. I am in over my head.(but being in over my head has never stopped me before).My friend the Great True American Hero Col Jack Jackson,told me yesterday "your pretty bright;you'll do fine". My children are all at University. Eric-Tufts University Boston on a full scholastic scholarship 4.0 GPA,in Civil Engineering as a senior, David- Meramac Community college 4.0 GPA Chris- away at age 15 to Northwest Missouri State University at the Missouri Academy for Science, Mathematics,&Computing for 2 years, than transfered to Mizzou in Columbia University-Senior age 20.
Now out of the pile of weight, the world has thrown at me. arises,an accomplished man. I have 96 College Credits, 4 years in the Military.32 years in my career field, Married in March 30 years.3 great kids(young men),expecting a grand baby girl 12Dec2010.I have not been challenged intellectuality in a very long time.I feel it,I was born and raised in NYC.It was a challenging upbringing.I survived.I learned hard work,how to study and how to utilize my resources,I've learned to ask for help.use many different sources;the text book the workbook,class room attendance, and be the first to arrive and the last to leave.use the learning resource center, peer tutoring,multimedia source(computer).
The drill Sargent took us out side and made us stand at attention for 8 hours a day on the hot drill pad with our notebook and he would read the first line and than we would write the first line, this went on for days and days till we had copied the entire textbook. Everyone passed the test.
I am currently in over my head. One option would be to drop this class and go to the community college and take pre-algebra. The other ,harder option, is to man up and remember, who the hell I am. Lead,Follow,or Get out of the way. For a moment I felt the Magic that education is, like when you "get it" a problem right, and sit a little straighter in your chair. I was 2 hours early to study before class. and after class people had the opportunity to pick the instructor's brain for info.Well, I slung my book bag over my shoulder,the last person out the door. strutting my stuff.The hard part was just showing up and walking through my fears.
Next will be up early in the learning center and doing homework and review,get a tutor assigned to me,So, I will be up early.working hard. I will play the cards that have been dealt me. Don't feel sorry for me,I am no more special then any other student in my class. We all want it. Tonight I pray a prayer of thanks for having the opportunity to live my Dream and attend the University....The Greater Common denominator....... Tim