The books that read us
When we get a read on someone we are intuiting the unseen, gaining a sense of where they might be. In conversation we hold space for them, listen reflectively, and often ask non-judgmental questions to explore that sense we have—provided we have permission. And, they respond accordingly.
I’ve been reflecting on how some books—and this relates to all other learning mediums—get a read on us. We show up to read the pages but what we find is they’re often reading us.
Books become mirrors, reflecting who we are and where we’re at. They highlight the challenges and joys of life, while unearthing the deeper parts of us. They cause the unconscious to become conscious with sprinkled droplets of aha.
To grab our full attention they speak loudly. Other times they make us laugh and stir those feel-good emotions just when we need them most. They also speak gently, guiding us through winding paths of instruction, pleasure, delight, and quiet contentment. And sometimes, they simply sit with us in silence like good friends do.
They walk with us in our development as humans and enrich our life.
I used to be one for reading fast. I even learned to speed read at one point and would set monthly book goals. While I still read most days, I’ve learned to slow it down. When the book speaks I stop—to pause and reflect, sometimes jotting a note in my journal. I highlight, scribble in the margins, dog-ear the pages (I know, I know…) and will often review these markings over the years.
So next time you pick up a book, listen to a podcast, or watch a video—and no matter the genre—be attentive to its voice.
And maybe, in the end, what stays with us isn’t the story itself, but the way it read us.
Ray
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ray@rayhodge.com.au; www.rayhodge.com.au; +61 403 341 105
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