A Drifter Among Us

Maybe it's just me, but there is a distinct feeling of loss with regards to valuing the company of those who are well read. There was a time when we used to seek out those who were more than knowledgeable, more than conversant in this topic or that, but those who had the ability to discuss a wide variety of topics intelligently. We enjoyed the conversation because they were not limited to a single topic, field of study or discipline. It was the ability to draw the connections between two seemingly unrelated topics that we valued. In a lot of ways, the death of being well read is due to the rise of social media.

This is one thing I'm determined to change about myself this year: I want to reshape my literacy. Even though my mom was a teacher and placed an importance on reading, I never valued it innately. To change that, I'm trying to lay down a foundation for myself this year that hopefully will transform my reading habits. I have two literary goals this year that I'm a quarter of the way through accomplishing. (#4)I want to read at least a book a month and (#8) also read the bible in a year. It's been challenging at times, but I'm discovering some benefits of it.

Being well read gives you confidence at social gatherings as you would be sure of not being stuck talking, even about a simple topic like the weather, unless something tremendous happened to it recently. Being up-to-date in current affairs helps you keep your head high at social gatherings.

I heard it said once that 'reading is thinking.' I agree with that statement if you advance what was read through discussion. I think a solid foundation in literature, philosophy, and classics can provide you with the self-sufficiency to teach yourself and formulate your own philosophies. How you digest is how you learn.

So where does that leave you? Maybe it's time for you to turn off the tv, shut your laptop, sit down, and start reading. Want more culture? Want to understand the world and it's history? Ready to travel or adventure or reflect?

Remember, a well read life is not far from your reach. What’s important is not how many or what books you read, but rather if you are in touch with books throughout your life.

Be open minded, be dedicated and find the time to read. A well read mind is an engaged mind, a wise personality who can move well in society, with better decision making capabilities and a broader knowledge base.