Get that higher education. You don't have to go into debt to do that--I don't care where you get it from. You can educate yourself these days almost as well by researching things online as you could by attending those pricey colleges. And especially research things pertaining to your religion. If you are unaffiliated, you are best to research thoroughly whatever religions you might later attempt to take up. Much research and little committing usually leads to a better decision when you are ready--and yes, you need to be thorough. Research the Christian religions, even ones you don't intend to join. Get familiar with the Jewish and Muslim religions, even if you don't want to become one--good research can help you rule out things as well as joining.
You also should research subjects such as basic math and science. Almost everyone at some point makes the mistake of assuming something without doing your research. You see this posted here, research it yourself and draw your own conclusions. Try to become good at math. Try to improve your reading skills. Work on thinking skills--this is extremely important. And that can best be done by looking at other areas where heated debates and fights are going on--checking out alternate cancer cures, alternate sources of energy, whether your dollar or euro will buy anything next year, and so on will help there. Look at those sites that are not "politically correct". The object is not to blindly go there or take up that side of the issue, but to learn to make your own decisions and to recognize what is bunk and what is sound. Check both sides of these issues--and learn to recognize what is valid.
Doing that might not sound as "cool" as going to college. However, you might wish to ask if you are prepared to take on the debt load. Those of you who are older might never make enough money to pay off those bills. But, almost anyone with an internet connection and the will to go out of your comfort zone and into politically incorrect areas, including the most "offensive" ones and do research on both sides of the issue, can become a better independent thinker. For instance, you could check out a few anti-Semite sites and then a few philo-Semite ones to compare. Or, compare natural cancer cures with allopathic. Or theories about alternative energy with mainstream. Or whatever will stimulate your thinking and force you to work outside your comfort zone. Much research, little commitment, and you learn the most.
