Learning to Think

I was only exposed to the great philosophers when I turned 30 and read a wonderful book called The Seven Virtues of a Philosopher Queen. Philosophy wasn't something covered in high school and it seemed like a far reaching and complicated thing in university. After discovering the wealth of thinking that has been done about people and how we function individually and as a collective, I wish I had of known more about it sooner. It's taught me so much about how I act and think and I'm a much better and happier person for it.  I've also been largely exposed to western philosophy and I'm certain that there is equally as much or more depth from other cultures. 

Philosophy is less complicated than its reputation leads you to believe.  The wisdom at the moment is kind of locked in an ivory tower and protected by its cloak of supposed complexity. I had two mandatory English classes in university, which I think were very valuable. I wonder why philosophy isn't required. It's tough work learning how to think and acting accordingly from it, however; in a world that is changing rapidly and will challenge us as individuals to continually evolve, I can't think of skills that are more important.