There are so many reasons to choose to read a book: to learn something, to be part of a different world/reality for awhile (entertainment), to broaden your horizons and understand others better, the list goes on and on. But one reason that we haven’t talked about much on our blog is, nostalgia. Picking up a book to read for no other reason than you remember the feelings the book evoked in you previously and you want to experience those feelings again.
This is why I picked up The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett for the millionth time, and once again it restored my hope in humanity. I first read this book when I was in middle school and needed to hear that a fresh beginning and renewal was possible (middle school sucks for everyone and hope is hard to find). I read it as an adult because in a world of chaos and hatred I still need to hear that hope is possible and people can change their hateful ways.
As spring approaches and the ultimate time of renewal is upon us, I am grateful I picked up The Secret Garden yet again. The story of two spoiled children who find new life in one another and the effects of their friendship on all of those around them reminds me of a drop of water in a pond. The loving actions of one person have wide spreading repercussions which emanate outward in all directions and I will endeavor to be a drop of water in the pond.
Read on my friends!