If you love to read novels, then you and I have something in common. Ever since I learned to read, I have not put books down. I have shelves lined with books. I have two e-readers (a Kindle and a Kobo) filled with books. Books are my passion.
Everyone loves a good story. We tell each other stories every day over a cup of coffee, at the photocopier, during dinner and even in bed. So the question is, why do we love stories so much? They make us laugh, they teach us, and they allow us to analyze and critique ourselves as human beings.
And this is why I’m passionate about books and reading. Reading about the lives of others improves our understanding of ourselves. The more I read, the more I came to understand my own values and beliefs. In turn, I was able to live more authentically. And that is what everyone is seeking when they pursue happiness. An authentic life. Books have been my rock in life, teaching me about the past, people in other places and times, making me laugh and cry and feel. Over time, I came to see that books were shaping the real me that I had never really allowed myself to be. And the more I came to understand myself, the more I came to understand about the kind of life I wanted to live, and the things that triggered anxiety in me. It took me time to figure this all out, and much of that time was confused, but without the insight into myself that books helped provide, I might still be living a confused, anxiety filled life.
I also love books because stories are fantastic fun! If you’ve ever been in love with a TV show with a great storyline, you know what I mean. And you may have noticed, many great movies and shows are based on books. Downton Abbey, The Witcher, Game of Thrones, Crazy Rich Asians, Gone with the Wind, even Die Hard! Having a vivid imagination, it’s no wonder I fell in love with books and reading at a young age. Books show me worlds and times I could never understand, but I have lived in those times and places because of them. I have to be forever grateful for that gift. Books have helped figure out who I truly am while supporting my mental health through storytelling and have kept me vastly entertained. Is it any wonder I am passionate about the written word?
In my life, books have been a huge part of my self growth, and my self care. I’ll never stop reading as long as I live. There’s beauty to be found about ourselves in the stories of others.
2 Comments
Such a great post. I love how you can get so lost in a book that you almost become part of the story
Me too! Books are just amazing.