I loved reading this! “The best way to return to myself is through a book” is such an apt observation. I’ve recently started introducing my girls to my own practice of seasonal reads that I return to each year (‘Wonder’ on my birthday, ‘Anne of Green Gables’ in the Spring, ‘A Christmas Carol’ in early December, you get the idea) and it’s the sweetest joy to see the anticipation that comes from both a new book or an old favorite. Little reminders to bring us back to ourselves ❤️
I also loved your point to remaining friends even in disagreement, our fallen world needs more of these gentle reminders. Thanks for sharing, friend!
Thanks for this thoughtful comment, Alli! I love the idea of "seasonal reads" -- especially rereads! I've started rereading a childhood favorite each year during the week between Christmas and New Years -- it's fun, relaxing, and even provides some food for thoughtful reflection!
It may sound like "damning with faint praise," but I assure you it is not. When I finished reading your essay my thought was, "It was certainly worth the time it took to read it." I especially appreciated the warm nuances (e.g., what we are really doing when we recommend a book to someone) and its spirit of openness to trying and testing in pursuit of larger truths. The underlying theme of fostering friendship was also quite pleasing and never more necessary than at the present time Many thanks. Larry Holley
Catherine, It as if you read my heart and mind! You and your mom are total geniuses. I could share pages of thoughts, but shall not. My main comment: sharing books is for me what some feel/do when they share gifts from their kitchen, or drawing pad, or sewing/knitting corner. When I finish a book I journal about characters as if they are friends, I consider lessons learned, new takeaways....and then I usually take a photo of the cover and share it with those I hope/pray can lean on it abit.
Reading, sharing, talking about books, writing about books has been as essential to my growth as exercise, eating and sleeping, therapy and faith. But "book suggestions as gifts, written down and tied up in a bow" and the classroom idea - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
Your writing and insights today have truly lifted me up. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Karen! I love what you said about sharing books -- it truly is a gift from the heart! That is why I love talking about books with friends who know me well, but it can be a little nerve-wracking to share the books I love in a public forum like this one. I am hoping and trusting that we can build a friendly community of readers here -- thank you for being part of it!
I loved reading this! “The best way to return to myself is through a book” is such an apt observation. I’ve recently started introducing my girls to my own practice of seasonal reads that I return to each year (‘Wonder’ on my birthday, ‘Anne of Green Gables’ in the Spring, ‘A Christmas Carol’ in early December, you get the idea) and it’s the sweetest joy to see the anticipation that comes from both a new book or an old favorite. Little reminders to bring us back to ourselves ❤️
I also loved your point to remaining friends even in disagreement, our fallen world needs more of these gentle reminders. Thanks for sharing, friend!
Thanks for this thoughtful comment, Alli! I love the idea of "seasonal reads" -- especially rereads! I've started rereading a childhood favorite each year during the week between Christmas and New Years -- it's fun, relaxing, and even provides some food for thoughtful reflection!
It may sound like "damning with faint praise," but I assure you it is not. When I finished reading your essay my thought was, "It was certainly worth the time it took to read it." I especially appreciated the warm nuances (e.g., what we are really doing when we recommend a book to someone) and its spirit of openness to trying and testing in pursuit of larger truths. The underlying theme of fostering friendship was also quite pleasing and never more necessary than at the present time Many thanks. Larry Holley
Thank you for your kind words, Larry! I so appreciate your thoughtful reading and insights on my post.
Catherine, It as if you read my heart and mind! You and your mom are total geniuses. I could share pages of thoughts, but shall not. My main comment: sharing books is for me what some feel/do when they share gifts from their kitchen, or drawing pad, or sewing/knitting corner. When I finish a book I journal about characters as if they are friends, I consider lessons learned, new takeaways....and then I usually take a photo of the cover and share it with those I hope/pray can lean on it abit.
Reading, sharing, talking about books, writing about books has been as essential to my growth as exercise, eating and sleeping, therapy and faith. But "book suggestions as gifts, written down and tied up in a bow" and the classroom idea - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
Your writing and insights today have truly lifted me up. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Karen! I love what you said about sharing books -- it truly is a gift from the heart! That is why I love talking about books with friends who know me well, but it can be a little nerve-wracking to share the books I love in a public forum like this one. I am hoping and trusting that we can build a friendly community of readers here -- thank you for being part of it!
Honestly, getting to talk books and swap recommendations with someone is one of the purest joys I’ve ever experienced. Loved this!
Yes -- it really is such a joy to create a community around a shared love of good stories. Thanks for reading! :)