The power of a good book

Until recently, I never truly understood what it is a book can do for someone. Although I hate to admit it, over the last three years, I’ve grown increasingly more addicted to and reliant on my phone. so much so that it often becomes a crutch when I’m bored, or when I’m anxious. Which are not always mutually exclusive. But doom scrolling and instant gratification don’t always help, and constantly seeing what other people are doing is just not healthy. So I turned to reading. I have read for leisure in the past, but this summer has taught me that reading isn’t just a leisure activity. These books, some of which I read this summer, some of which I read when I was ten, have taught me more about myself than I think anything else ever has. And some have just simply been there to give me a laugh or keep me entertained on a sick day. From books, I’ve learned about my anxiety, and felt less alone because of it. Especially books like Girl Online by Zoe Sugg. Books have taught me what love should look like. And that maybe I do know what it feels like, both the happiness and the pain, in all forms of relationships. I’ve learned to chase dreams, fight for what you stand for, and to love unconditionally. The first book that ever made me cry is in this pile. The first book turned movie that I ever read and then watched is in this pile. The book that showed me adventure, and the book that showed me love, are in this pile. Of course, some books were just for fun.

To think I read three books in one day, but 4-5 years ago, if you asked me what I love about reading, I would’ve laughed in your face and told you I hated it. It was always something I struggled with, especially when I was young. It made me insecure that reading felt hard for me, especially when I didn’t get the same message everyone else did or when it took me twice as long to finish a book. But today I am grateful for books and all they have taught me, all they will teach me, for the pain they have caused me, the love they have given me, and the comfort they will always provide. Even when they make me think too hard.

Cheers,

Sophie

originally written 7/26/22