Changing
Lives through Reading... (an essay for a change!)
Thoughts are the manifestation of our perception of
the world around us. And it is the mind that at once is the creator as well as
consumer of thoughts that mature into ideas, thus getting reflected in our
actions, which not only define us but also affect all that we are part of. Just
as the stomach craves food, the mind too needs fodder to sustain, to remain
occupied and progress. And what better way than to read, or write for that
matter!
In the fast-paced life that we lead nowadays, seldom
do we procrastinate amidst running around, achieving or sometimes even over-achieving,
and find that our mind is either totally ignored or ridiculously cluttered up
with things not worth holding onto. One must pause and think, as to what weighs
us down yet has the ability to lift us up?
Thoughts! People may choose to
live as they like, but why not live in a better way? The mind is a sponge,
which soaks up whatever it sees, hears, and perceives. So why not let it soak
up a bit of poetry or a dash of prose? The ability of books in influencing a
person is grossly underestimated in today’s world; and sadly a majority of the
population is denied the privilege of education. But to imagine lives touched
by knowledge is a wonder in itself, a goal for tomorrow. Reading enriches the
mind, sharpens the thought process, and hones the power of imagination. If an educational institution’s curriculum is
taken into consideration, then the same enhances the reader’s life by means of
its educational value, pertaining to specific qualifications. The individual
has a better shot at earning a living, armed with knowledge, if especially
hailing from a financially weak background. Reading helps an individual form
opinion, and deal with matters more positively. It opens a doorway to infinite
knowledge, wisdom and a make-believe world, where the mind can escape to and
overcome obstacles unknown! While writing, an author conveys his emotions and
ideas, and those reading them would relate to it, thus forming a web of minds
connected to the same idea, possibly even a revolutionary one! By means of
reading people come across valuable information and opinions that help shape
their personality, and also equip them with the knowledge to differentiate
between wrong and right. Through reading, individuals become more aware of the
society that they live in, and are galvanized into action and into taking up
causes to eradicate the evils prevailing within whole social setup. A bright
example has been set by penal systems throughout the U.S which subjects
offenders to reading literature as an alternative punishment, which has changed
many lives. The offenders get a second chance at redeeming themselves and
developing a healthy mindset.
Thus reading empowers, broadens and strengthens the
mind, affecting the way of living and livelihood, bringing forth better individuals
and paving the path towards a golden future.
