Reading changes lives…
I grew up surrounded by books, captivated by the fascinating stories my grandfather, a writer and playwright, always had to tell. Without realizing it, I inherited from him that love for letters, that need to share stories and to express thoughts and emotions on paper.
Perhaps I realized this wonderful aspect of my life too late, but once I discovered it, I knew it was an essential part of who I am. My greatest hope is that one day I can commemorate the legacy he left in me, and that from above, he can be proud of what I have created and what I am doing now.
My writing journey began more than 25 years ago when I wrote my first story, titled María and Her Tooth, which was published in a children’s magazine. The story was based on a real event: my mother had broken a tooth while opening a packet of cookies, and I decided to turn that moment into a story.
Even though they asked me to do the illustrations for the story, I remember feeling frustrated because drawing wasn’t my strong suit. I insisted that a story didn’t always need illustrations, and I almost didn’t participate because of that. However, that experience taught me the power of writing, not only as a means of personal expression but also as a way to connect with others.
I believe that at that time I didn’t know the word “empathy,” but I already felt how stories could unite us and help us understand each other. Since then, reading and writing have become my greatest passions, especially the retold princess stories that fascinated me so much.
4 Reasons Why Reading Changes Lives
Reading is much more than a hobby; it’s a tool that can transform our lives in ways we never anticipated. Here are some ways reading positively impacts our lives:
1. Fosters Empathy
Reading allows us to step into others’ shoes, understand their struggles, joys, and sorrows. This is especially important in a world where empathy sometimes seems scarce. Reading opens our eyes to others’ experiences and makes us more understanding and considerate.
2. Improves Mental Health
Books can be an escape when reality becomes overwhelming. Reading helps us reduce stress, relax, and forget our problems for a while. Additionally, reading is an effective way to combat insomnia and improve sleep quality.
3. Enriches Knowledge
Every book is an inexhaustible source of knowledge. Whether you read fiction or non-fiction, there’s always something new to learn. Books expand our vocabulary, improve our concentration, and help us think critically.
4. Stimulates Imagination and Creativity
Reading takes us to unknown places, introduces us to unique characters, and presents moral dilemmas that make us reflect. Imagination has no limits when we read, and this creativity translates into our daily lives, helping us find innovative solutions to problems.
How to Celebrate Reader’s Day
This August 24th, I invite you to celebrate Reader’s Day in a special way. Here are some ideas:
- Dedicate Time to Read: Find a quiet spot, choose a book that excites you, and immerse yourself in its story. There’s no better way to celebrate this day than by enjoying reading.
- Share Your Love for Books: Talk with your friends, family, or on social media about the books that have marked you. Recommend readings and share your favorite quotes.
- Visit a Bookstore or Library: Support local bookstores or visit your nearest library. Immerse yourself in the smell of books and let your curiosity guide you to new stories.
- Join a Book Club: If you’re not part of a book club yet, this is an excellent opportunity to join one. Sharing your impressions of a book with other readers can enrich your experience and open you up to new perspectives.
Conclusion
Reading has been, and continues to be, an essential part of my life. This Reader’s Day, I want to remind us how fortunate we are to access a world of stories, knowledge, and emotions through books. So, whether you’re an avid reader or someone looking to rekindle your love for reading, I encourage you to pick up a book, get lost in its pages, and discover how reading can change your life.
Mel
