A Gift to give to Yourself!

When I do a book signing, I have the opportunity to meet a variety of people and it’s a pleasure to become acquainted with them and to talk about books. Since I’ve always loved to read, I assume everyone else does, so it’s usually a surprise when someone tells me they have never read a novel in their lives! They tell me they read snatches of news online or in newspapers or magazines and that is enough for them.

It’s hard for me to imagine reading so little. Reading is such an adventure in so many ways, who wouldn’t be tempted? My earliest memory of what I wanted, more than anything, was to learn to read. I even wished upon stars that I could read; my pre-kindergarten most desired and coveted golden accomplishment was to be able to read. I can remember going to sleep crying because I was having trouble learning the skill.  I also remember that spectacular and triumphant moment when I finally achieved the ability to understand a group of letters. It was breathtaking! From that moment on, I had a book in my hand at every opportunity. I loved the stories; I loved the process that created feelings deep inside; the words that brought tears to my eyes; the phrases that inspired me to be a better person and those that helped me to understand others around me. Who wouldn’t want to open the door to such a vast depth of knowledge?

Some of the people I met tell me that they love to read, but have stopped. When I asked why, most said they are too busy to read anymore. Others say they will wait for the movie. I say, if you loved the movie, be sure to read the book, too.

Reading is much different than watching the movie. Books are more personal, a moment shared between just the author and the reader; a quiet time to pause and reflect on a sentence and to return again and again to a paragraph that inspired or touched somewhere within and possibly started a healing process.

I challenge people who love to read to start to read again, to set aside at least thirty minutes a day to read. I promise you’ll be glad you made that choice because a world of fulfillment will open and the enjoyment you remember will return. Why not bring delight into your world for thirty minutes a day? Read whatever you want, explore new things, pick up the old. The classics are still there and just as good as ever. In fact, there is a flood of good literature out there right now. Grab a book and read!
 © 2013 Linda Gatewood