One investment that can never go wrong
Once upon a time, there was a shelf at the corner of my study room. As I grew, the shelf grew too with philosophy, art, animals, space travel, those my father would often buy. However, my affinity for the books was quite limited at the time. And, I never read much.
But, something happened over the years, I discovered an interest. Somehow the affinity that had been dormant till now transformed into something meaningful. I started reading books, albeit once in a while. But, finally, I did. For me, this was no less than a turning point in my life.
Besides, there was one thing that I loved so much. The smell of my books! Nostalgia, soothing, curiosity or maybe happiness, such feelings that the sweet fragrance of my books would always carry. You know I still smell my books. Sometimes, smoothing my fingers over the pages and taking a deep inhale as if it’s my life I am breathing in.
Isn’t this a pure joy and wonderful to possess some brilliant works of greatest thinkers, philosophers, and poets who have lived on this earth? Words that have the capacity to heal you, thoughts that can leave a deep imprint on your life.
Isn’t it amazing to see how words can be connected to form some beautiful stories? Stories that resonate deeply with your life.
Isn’t it simply remarkable to see how such things give you a sense of fulfillment?
Reading is organic in nature. That’s how I conclude. But, you have to let it grow on you. The pursuit of knowledge is an art, an experience in itself. In my search for knowledge, I understood that through books, one can receive a great insight into human behavior, how the real world works, its intricacies and simplicities.
You needn’t be another Dostoevsky, Freud or Seneca.
Because you have empowered yourself with a deep awareness, developed your own thought processes. You now have a great understanding of making your life extraordinary.
What I have learned is we derive strength, realization from each other and because of each other. Consciously or unconsciously we are dependent on one another. And, I don’t find it surprising that we need each other. At the end of the day, one marvelous piece of someone else’s writing is enough to turn your life just like that. Something, you couldn’t have otherwise dreamt of doing or had the audacity to do so.
Today, when I look back I feel happy and I am thankful to my dad. For letting me explore about this world, for exposing me to the eccentricities of extraordinary personalities, making me question ‘why’ of everything I read and asking me to think deeply at every stage of my life.
I feel that the best thing parents can give their children other than the gift of unconditional love is introducing them to the world of books. They may not read, but they would always grow up loving books, keeping books and collecting them even if they wouldn’t read after many years. And, soon after crossing 25, they would recall and appreciate you. Because they will soon understand what a wonderful treasure you have passed on to them…
So, go out and visit the best libraries in the world.
Check out the oldest bookstores in your town, collect the finest works of some great men, and learn poetry.
Keep a book with yourself, always. I know how magical it could be.
Inspire yourself and the other person to learn.
And, have someone in your life; a friend, mentor or partner with whom you can discuss the greatest literary works and beautiful philosophies.
It’s true when they say that books are man’s best friend.
There are a few things that tend to surpass the pleasures of the mundane world. Only a few things that can be life changing. And, only a few things that are worth investing with an abundant return.
