3. CHAPTER THREE

Lesson Two : Why Teach Financial Literacy?

In 1990, my best friend, Mike, took over his father's empire and is, in fact, doing a better job than his dad did. We see each other once or twice a year on the golf course. He and his wife are wealthier than you could imagine. Rich dad's empire is in great hands, and Mike is now grooming his son to take his place, as his dad had groomed us.

2. CHAPTER TWO

Lesson One: The Rich Don't Work For Money

"Dad, Can You Tell Me How to Get Rich?"

My dad put down the evening paper. "Why do you want to get rich, son?"

"Because today Jimmy's mom drove up in their new Cadillac, and they were going to their beach house for the weekend. He took three of his friends, but Mike and I weren't invited. They told us we weren't invited because we were `poor kids'."

1. CHAPTER ONE: Rich Dad, Poor Dad

As narrated by Robert Kiyosaki

I had two fathers, a rich one and a poor one. One was highly educated and intelligent; he had a Ph.D. and completed four years of undergraduate work in less than two years. He then went on to Stanford University, the University of Chicago, and Northwestern University to do his advanced studies, all on full financial scholarships. The other father never finished the eighth grade.

Both men were successful in their careers, working hard all their lives. Both earned substantial incomes. Yet one struggled financially all his life. The other would become one of the richest men in Hawaii. One died leaving tens of millions of dollars to his family, charities and his church. The other left bills to be paid.

Both men were strong, charismatic and influential. Both men offered me advice, but they did not advise the same things. Both men believed strongly in education but did not recommend the same course of study.

INTRODUCTION: There is a Need.

Does school prepare children for the real world? "Study hard and get good
grades and you will find a high-paying job with great benefits," my parents used
to say. Their goal in life was to provide a college education for my older
sister and me, so that we would have the greatest chance for success in life.
When I finally earned my diploma in 1976-graduating with honors, and near the
top of my class, in accounting from Florida State University-my parents had
realized their goal. It was the crowning achievement of their lives. In
accordance with the "Master Plan," I was hired by a "Big 8" accounting firm, and
I looked forward to a long career and retirement at an early age.