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.