I have discovered that after decades in academia, I have lost the art of slow reading. I will skim through books, scan through articles, notice facts and diagrams, and annotate digitally. I have become comfortable with that in today’s whirlwind era, where speed is synonymous with success, our everyday actions are always fast-forward. Efficiency has taken precedence, from gulping meals to rushing through emails and consuming books in speed-reading mode. However, in this haste, an essential essence gets lost. Friedrich Nietzsche’s words resonate deeply here: “It is not the reader, but the re-reader, who is the heart’s friend.” Let us delve into the forgotten and deeply enriching art of slow reading, exploring its numerous rewards.
Understanding Slow Reading
To understand slow reading, imagine relishing each bite of a gourmet meal. It isn’t just about moving at a turtle’s pace; it’s about a conscious, enriching immersion. Speed reading aims at consuming vast amounts of information quickly, but slow reading is about absorption and reflection. It isn’t about counting the pages you’ve covered but about soaking in the essence of each word and sentence. In Slow Reading, John Miedema notes, “Slow reading is a deliberate choice: It proceeds from a willingness to spend as much time as a book deserves.” We engage with the text in a dialogue rather than a monologue when we indulge in slow reading.
Slow reading offers:
Deepened Comprehension and Retention: Just like a well-cooked meal offers more nutrition, texts relished slowly impart deeper understanding. Harold Bloom, author of The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages, asked a fundamental question, “Information is endlessly available to us; where shall wisdom be found?”
Enhanced Emotional Resonance: Every nuance, emotion, and layer in the narrative comes alive, allowing readers to form a more profound bond with the text. Thomas Newkirk noted in The Art of Slow Reading: Six Time-Honored Practices for Engagement, “With the rush of immediate information…we can forget the pleasures of musing, of meandering, of lingering on words and ideas.”
Room for Introspection: Sven Birkerts, in his insightful book on reading, The Gutenberg Elegies: The Fate of Reading in an Electronic Age, made this comment, “Reading, because we control it, is adaptable to our needs and rhythms. We are free to indulge our subjective associative impulse; the term I coin for this is deep reading: the slow and meditative possession of a book.” Reading slowly gives our minds the luxury to internalise, relate, and reflect upon the ideas presented.
Appreciation of Language: The elegance of a writer’s craft, the choice of words, and the flow of narrative become things of beauty to savour. Virginia Woolf reminds us, “To read slowly, and to read again, is to show the kind of respect to a writer which will help the reader to pure enjoyment.”
Tips to Cultivate the Habit of Slow Reading
Choose the Right Material: Not every text demands a slow read. Classics, intricate poetry, or thought-provoking philosophical works often unveil their treasures when relished slowly.
Craft the Ideal Reading Nook: Marcel Proust once said, “Reading, a diversion from the world, is a silent and immobile activity in which the dream of the world is reconstituted.” Design a sanctuary with a serene ambience, plush seating, and optimal lighting.
Engage Holistically with the Text: Feel free to annotate, draw, underline, and frequently revisit striking sections. Interact with the text, making it a dynamic experience.
Mindful Reading Practices: Ensure you are mentally present, absorbing each phrase. If your focus drifts, centre yourself and continue.
Participate in Reading Groups: Sharing and discussing interpretations enriches comprehension and fosters community.
Overcoming the Challenges of Slow Reading
In an age where our calendars brim with tasks, slow reading may appear counterintuitive:
Recondition Your Brain: Initially, the mind might rebel against the change. Like any habit, persistence will lead to acclimatisation. Let us take note that digital reading is changing our brains. Nicholas Carr writing in The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains, warns, “Deep reading…is indistinguishable from deep thinking.”
Address the “Productivity Guilt”: Understand that slow reading isn’t inaction. It’s an active form of mental rejuvenation and enrichment.
Balancing Act: It’s essential to discern which material deserves a slow read and which can be skimmed.
Conclusion
In the cacophony of our modern lives, the allure of skimming through tasks, including reading, is ever-present. However, immersing oneself deeper in literature transforms our comprehension of texts and offers a richer understanding of the world and ourselves. As you embark on your next reading journey, remember poet Wisława Szymborska’s words: “There’s nothing more, nothing better in life than to wake up and read, provided we have books.” Celebrate and luxuriate in the art of slow reading, a path to profound literary and personal discoveries.
Reading is an important part of my life. I remember as a young boy from a poor family, I used to go hungry and save up all my pocket money to buy books from the nearest bookstore. Usually, it took me a month to buy a single book. In an age where screens dominate our landscape and digital stimuli are ubiquitous, the allure of reading might seem somewhat anachronistic. Yet, to quote the words of author George Orwell, “Books are the mirrors of the soul.” Whether it’s a printed page’s tactile allure or an ebook’s seamless swipe, reading remains one of humanity’s most transformative experiences. This article invites readers to embark on a literary exploration, diving deep into the manifold joys and profound revelations of reading.
Holding a physical book is akin to holding a world within one’s hands. The rustle of pages, the distinct aroma of ink and paper, and even the wear and tear of a well-loved book—all these elements evoke a tactile satisfaction. As novelist Umberto Eco beautifully articulated, “The book is like the spoon: once invented, it cannot be bettered.” In contrast, ebooks are the vanguard of the reading evolution. They champion modernity—offering instant access, customizable fonts, and vast libraries stored in devices that fit our palms. With ebooks, as Aldous Huxley once predicted, “The proper study of mankind is the science of design.” We’ve created ways to consume stories and knowledge more efficiently while still holding onto the essence of reading.
Exploring Strange New Worlds: Realms of Joy
The allure of books is reminiscent of the Star Trek motto: “To boldly go where no one has gone before.” Each narrative offers us a spacecraft of imagination, propelling us beyond the confines of our immediate surroundings and into the infinite expanse of the universe of stories.
Every tale, chapter, and line is a star on the map of literary exploration, leading readers to previously uncharted destinations. To quote J.R.R. Tolkien, “I have claimed that Escape is one of the main functions of fairy-stories, and since I do not disapprove of them, it is plain that I do not accept the tone of scorn or pity with which ‘Escape’ is now so often used.” In the act of reading, we embrace this “Escape,” launching ourselves into interstellar adventures, navigating through galaxies of emotions, and landing on planets of profound insights. These books, be they a product of vivid fantasy or anchored in distant realities, offer a mode of transportation that transcends time and space. It’s a journey that requires no spaceship, just an open mind and an insatiable curiosity. Science fiction and fantasy writings have enabled me to explore new dimensions of the mind and soul with its interplay of technology.
The Profound Resonance of Awe and Wonder: Discovering Joy
Reading is not merely a passive act; it is an invitation to a dance of the mind, a voyage across the seas of emotion and intellect. When we dive deep into a book’s pages, we find not only tales and narratives but doorways into realms of awe and wonder. Emily Dickinson once beautifully captured this sentiment, stating, “There is no frigate like a book to take us lands away.” This sense of discovery is at the very heart of reading. Each page turned is akin to a step taken in an unknown land. Just as an explorer feels the rush of adrenaline upon discovering a hidden waterfall or an uncharted island, readers too experience that exhilarating sense of awe and wonder with every unexpected twist, character revelation, or new idea encountered. The pages teem with life, breathing moments of astonishment into our everyday existence. As a young boy, I remember my sense of awe and wonder as I discovered through reading the Emperor Penguins of Antarctica.
Literature allows me to share in the profound human odyssey. Moreover, literature ignites our imagination and often challenges our perspectives, compelling us to view the world with fresh eyes. Books have this magical ability to simultaneously comfort and astonish, allowing us to rediscover the world around us and, more importantly, within us. Whether rooted in fantasy or reality, each narrative invites us into a dance of discovery, where wonders await at every turn.
In the embrace of a well-written tome, we are often reminded of boundless possibilities and the vast tapestry of human experience. It’s a space where the mundane transform into the extraordinary and where the known and the unknown coalesce in a symphony of awe and wonder. This profound resonance, this blend of discovery and deep emotion, is the very essence of the reading experience.
Building Connections in Our Aloneness: Connecting Joy
In our modern era, characterized by vast technological advancements and rapid global interconnectivity, it’s paradoxical that feelings of isolation and aloneness have become more prevalent. While the world has never been more interconnected, genuine human connections seem increasingly rare. Amidst this paradox, reading emerges as an unexpected bridge, rekindling human connection even in moments of solitude.
Books, in their profound depth and vast narratives, hold a mirror to the myriad emotions, struggles, and dreams that thread the human experience together. Every story we dive into becomes a reflection of the universal truths that bind us, reminding us of the shared human essence. As William Nicholson remarked in Shadowlands, “We read to know we’re not alone.” Each book offers an unspoken dialogue with humanity, past and present, allowing us to touch the soul of existence. Moreover, the narratives we immerse ourselves in often become companions in the loneliest of times. The characters and tales become familiar friends, comforting us with their stories and experiences. Through them, we recognize our own vulnerabilities, aspirations, and emotions, reinforcing the truth that our feelings and experiences are far from unique. Even in solitude, a book ensures we are in good company. As I reread many old books in my collection, it is like greeting old friends and remembering the good and bad memories associated with them. At times, I may even enjoy the smell these pages evoked.
But the power of reading extends beyond personal solace. The shared love for a story or an author becomes a potent catalyst for human connection. Book clubs, literary festivals, and even online forums dedicated to dissecting and discussing literature provide platforms for genuine interaction. These shared narratives become common ground, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. They become touchpoints of shared humanity, fostering empathy and understanding.
Furthermore, literature offers insights into the minds and lives of people we might never encounter daily. It allows us to walk in someone else’s shoes, even if only for a few hundred pages. This journey into another’s perspective fosters a sense of empathy and connection, bridging divides of culture, time, and circumstance. We begin to understand that a shared human core lies beneath the myriad differences that seem to separate us.
Gaining Information, Developing Wisdom: Beacons of Joy
The world of books offers more than just an escape; it serves as a repository of the collective wisdom of generations. As gateways to the treasure troves of human intellect and experiences, books provide readers with invaluable information, insights, and reflections. They act as custodians of history, the vanguards of scientific progress, and the champions of artistic thought.
T.S. Eliot poignantly observed, “The greatest proof of our culture is the dissemination of books.” This is more than just an ode to literature; it’s an acknowledgement of how integral books have been in preserving and propagating the core tenets of our civilizations. Through them, we gain insights into distant cultures, explore multifaceted philosophical discourses, and traverse the evolution of human thought.
However, the power of books isn’t just limited to imparting information. They beckon readers to go a step further, pushing us towards introspection and synthesis. Reading requires more than just a passive intake of words. It’s an intricate dance of comprehension, reflection, and personal synthesis. We’re not just absorbing tales and data; we’re mentally engaging with them, connecting dots, and often crafting new insights based on our unique experiences and perspectives. Sir Francis Bacon’s assertion captures this beautifully: “Some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.” This act of ‘digesting’ is where knowledge transforms into wisdom. It’s when different books’ stories, facts, and ideas intermingle with our personal experiences, forging new understandings and insights.
In their diversity, books challenge our status quo, present alternate viewpoints, and often play devil’s advocate to our firmly held beliefs. Fueled by this influx of varied perspectives, the resulting internal discourse is the crucible where raw information metamorphoses into profound wisdom. Each page read and each idea encountered adds a layer to our intellectual tapestry, making us more informed, wiser, and more discerning.
Books and Reading: An Endless Odyssey
Amidst the relentless din of our fast-paced world, books remain steadfast lighthouses, casting beams of solace, knowledge, and imagination across the stormy seas of life. They are more than mere compilations of words; they are timeless companions that whisper ancient wisdom and conjure visions of uncharted horizons.
As C.S. Lewis aptly stated, “We read to know we are not alone.” In the embrace of a book, one can find solace during moments of solitude, strength during times of weakness, and enlightenment amidst the shadows of ignorance. The pages, whether they be of parchment or pixels, encapsulate a world where boundaries blur between reality and fantasy, between the known and the mysterious. Each line read each character encountered, and every plot twist experienced revitalizes the soul, providing fresh perspectives and fostering deeper connections to the world and oneself.
So, as you stand on the precipice of your next literary journey, whether through a cherished, dog-eared classic or an avant-garde digital novella, take a moment to bask in the profound magic of books. Let your heart and mind be swept away by the transformative power of literature, and discover, yet again, the endless wonders that await in the world of reading.
I have read and reread Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series, which remains one of my favourite galactic epics. Recently Apple TV+ introduced season one (2021) of Foundation, an interesting cinematic reinterpretation of Asimov’s trilogy. This led me to reread the series. Now that the second season is coming, I have begun rereading it again.
Asimov’s celebrated Foundation Trilogy, composed of “Foundation,” “Foundation and Empire,” and “Second Foundation,” stands as a paradigm of thought-provoking science fiction that intricately weaves philosophical exploration into its narrative. The stories, first serialized in Astounding Magazine from 1942 to 1950, were later published as standalone books – “Foundation” in 1951, “Foundation and Empire” in 1952, and “Second Foundation” in 1953. Originally conceived in response to editor John W. Campbell’s suggestion to create a future history series akin to Edward Gibbon’s “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,” Asimov’s Trilogy exemplifies the interplay of symbolic logic, history, and mathematical psychology. It offers profound insights into human nature, societal evolution, and the arc of civilization.
The Trilogy, set in a fictional universe, presents an astute parallel between the Galactic Empire’s decline and the Roman Empire’s fall. Asimov contends in “Foundation,” “The fall of Empire, gentlemen, is a massive thing, however, and not easily fought. It is dictated by the dead hand of the past.” This assertion underscores Asimov’s perspective on history’s cyclical rhythm, emphasizing that societies and civilizations trace a recurring pattern of rise, peak, decline, and eventual downfall regardless of their size.
Central to the Trilogy is the innovative field of psychohistory, introduced through the character of Hari Seldon. Psychohistory amalgamates sociology, history, and mathematical statistics to predict the future. In “Foundation,” Seldon proclaims, “Psychohistory… is that branch of mathematics which deals with the reactions of human conglomerates to fixed social and economic stimuli.” Seldon, anticipating the fall of the Galactic Empire and the subsequent 30,000-year dark age, hatches a plan to reduce this turbulent epoch to a mere millennium. While psychohistory may initially appear deterministic, it essentially mirrors recurring historical cycles, underscoring the cyclical nature of history. It offers a potent critique of the positivist belief in human progress, challenging the notion that advancement is linear and universally beneficial.
The Trilogy is imbued with the philosophical motif that every solution to a problem invariably ushers in a new challenge. Asimov asserts in “Foundation and Empire,” “Never let your sense of morals get in the way of doing what’s right.” This statement embodies the moral quandary often confronting the Foundation’s leaders, where decisions made to tackle immediate problems frequently sow the seeds for new dilemmas. This reflects the complexity of problem-solving within an interconnected society, positing that every action, even those aimed at resolution, can instigate unpredictable system-level changes.
Asimov’s Foundation Trilogy is pivotal to science fiction because it transcends conventional depictions of futuristic technologies or alien civilizations. Instead, it harnesses the genre to explore complex philosophical and sociological concepts. The Trilogy adeptly employs symbolic logic, predictive models, and societal dynamics to narrate humanity’s story within a cosmic setting, thus transforming science fiction from mere imaginative fantasy to a platform for intellectual engagement. The ‘foundation’ in the Trilogy’s title encapsulates the intellectual groundwork that Asimov laid for the future of science fiction—a genre capable of merging grand narratives with stimulating philosophical exploration.
In conclusion, Asimov’s Foundation Trilogy is a philosophical tour de force, presenting a nuanced examination of the cyclical nature of history, the potential and limitations of psychohistory’s predictions, and the intricate chain of problems and solutions. Just as the fictional Foundation serves as a beacon of enlightenment in Asimov’s universe, the Trilogy itself illuminates the path for traversing the immense universe of science fiction. A detailed analysis of these elements underscores why Asimov’s work has emerged as a pivotal pillar in the science fiction genre, connecting fantastical storytelling with an insightful philosophical discourse on humanity’s potential and the patterns of societal evolution.
Asimov aptly encapsulates this ethos in “Foundation,” saying, “Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.” As illustrated in the Foundation Trilogy, we can build a more enlightened future—much like Seldon’s ambition to save his universe from millennia of darkness through intellectual pursuit, innovative problem-solving, and understanding our historical patterns. These themes echo through the annals of science fiction, solidifying Asimov’s Trilogy as a timeless and influential addition to the genre.
Book addiction is a captivating phenomenon that has the power to consume individuals in the enchanting world of literature. For some, it becomes an insatiable craving, a constant quest to devour one more page, one more chapter. Exploring the reasons behind such addiction can illuminate the allure that books hold over passionate readers. In this post, we will delve into the depths of why you, as a book addict, find solace, excitement, and fulfilment within the pages of your beloved books.
1. A Sense of Wonder
“Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination and the journey. They are home.” – Anna Quindlen.
One of the reasons you find yourself drawn to books is the sense of wonder they ignite within you. As you turn each page, you embark on a voyage to unfamiliar realms, encountering extraordinary characters and captivating narratives. Books become portals to magical worlds, allowing you to escape the mundane realities of life and immerse yourself in boundless imagination. The ability of books to spark your sense of wonder is like unlocking a hidden treasure chest, revealing endless possibilities and enchantment.
2. A Sense of Awe
“A book is a dream that you hold in your hands.” – Neil Gaiman.
Within the realm of literature, you discover the power of words to evoke a profound sense of awe. As you delve into the depths of an exquisitely crafted story, you witness the brilliance of human creativity and the artistry of language. The intricate tapestry woven by skilled authors fills you with awe and admiration, leaving you spellbound by their ability to transport you to distant lands, evoke raw emotions, and unravel the mysteries of the human condition. Each word, each sentence, holds the potential to leave you in awe of the immense power of storytelling.
3. A Sense of Connection
“A great book is a friend that never lets you down. You can return to it again and again and the joy first derived from it will still be there.” – Dean Koontz.
Books have an extraordinary ability to create a sense of connection, bridging the gap between different individuals and cultures. As you immerse yourself in the narratives, you form deep bonds with the characters, experiencing their triumphs, sorrows, and growth alongside them. Through the pages, you discover that you are not alone in your joys and struggles, finding solace in the understanding that others have trodden similar paths. Your connection with the stories and characters becomes a lifeline, grounding you in a vast sea of humanity.
4. A Sense of Belonging
“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” – Charles W. Eliot.
In the realm of books, you find a sanctuary where you belong, a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. Regardless of the circumstances, books are always there, waiting to offer comfort and wisdom. Within their pages, you discover characters who resonate with your experiences, struggles, and aspirations, making you feel understood and embraced. Books become loyal companions, offering solace, guidance, and a sense of belonging transcending time and space.
5. A Sense of Journeying Home
“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” – Mason Cooley.
Within the confines of a book, you find a profound sense of journeying home. Whether it is a spiritual, physical or emotional home, literature provides a safe haven where you can retreat and rediscover your true self. As you navigate the intricacies of different plots, you embark on a personal voyage, unravelling your own emotions, dreams, and desires. Books become beacons that guide you back to your core, helping you make sense of the world and find your place within it.
Conclusion: A Cure for the Book Addict
More books! In the vast expanse of literature, you have found a remedy, a cure for your insatiable hunger for books. Through the sense of wonder, awe, connection, belonging, and journeying home that books provide, you have discovered a rich tapestry of experiences that enrich your life. As you continue your journey as a book addict, remember the words of Francis Bacon: “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.” Allow yourself to savour each word, each story, and cherish the profound impact they have on your soul. Embrace your book addiction as a gateway to personal growth, knowledge, and endless exploration.
In a world filled with distractions and technological advancements, the love of reading is a precious gift that we, as parents, should strive to cultivate in our children. As Francois de Fenelon, the esteemed French archbishop and spiritual director, once proclaimed, “If the riches of the Indies, or the crowns of all the kingdom of Europe, were laid at my feet in exchange for my love of reading, I would spurn them all.” Such declarations may seem rare today, but we can aspire to raise children who share this sentiment. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of reading in a child’s development and discuss five action plans to help parents foster a genuine love for books in their little ones.
The Importance of Cultivating a Love of Reading
Reading is a beneficial activity that nurtures a child’s mind and imagination. Unfortunately, many parents overlook the significance of actively encouraging their children to read, hoping they will develop this love independently. However, as responsible parents, we must take intentional steps to instil a passion for reading within our children. While we invest significant amounts of money in extracurricular activities and specialized teaching, it is crucial to allocate resources for building strong reading habits as well.
Action Plan 1: Have Books Around the House
To cultivate a love of reading, it is essential to surround children with books. Make books a staple in your household by placing them in easily accessible areas. Consider making the bookshelf the focal point of your living room, shifting the attention away from screens. As Roald Dahl beautifully expressed in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, Go throw your TV set away, And in its place, you can install, A lovely bookshelf on the wall.” Even if young children show an inclination to chew on their books, allow them to explore and engage with them. While precious collectables can be displayed securely, let your children embrace their tattered paperbacks and cardboard books, fostering a sense of ownership and connection.
Action Plan 2: Associate Books with Warmth, Love, and Intimacy
Children often associate objects with certain feelings. Therefore, it is crucial to help them associate books with positive emotions. Reading to your children communicates the importance of the activity and the value you attach to spending quality time with them. For even greater impact, consider snuggling together in bed for bedtime stories, creating a memorable and intimate experience. As Emilie Buchwald wisely said, “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.” Never resort to using books as instruments of punishment; they should always be linked to warmth and love.
Action Plan 3: Be a Reading Role Model
Children observe and imitate their parents, making it essential for you to be a reader yourself. Engage in reading activities beyond newspapers and technical journals. Children are perceptive and will view you as their primary role model. Therefore, your love for reading will greatly influence your own reading habits. As Harold Bloom once observed, “Reading well is one of the great pleasures that solitude can afford you.” Let this sentiment resonate within you and guide your actions. If you want your children to read, you must be reading yourself.
Action Plan 4: Let Your Child Choose Their Books
While initially selecting books for your child is necessary, gradually empower them to choose the books they want to read. Provide a diverse range of age-appropriate reading materials and encourage their selection process. Even with teenagers, offering recommendations can be valuable, despite their apparent rejection of them. Each stage of their life will bring new reading themes and interests, such as planes, dinosaurs, pirates, spaceships, and monsters. Support their choices and expose them to various age-appropriate topics to expand their horizons. E.M. Forster wisely noted, “The only books that influence us are those for which we are ready, and which have gone a little farther down our particular path than we have yet got ourselves.” That’s the value of parents guiding and sharing their reading.
Action Plan 5: Embrace Reading for Pleasure
Reading should always be associated with pleasure, not pressure. Avoid forcing your children into academic preparations before they are ready. Pushing them to read textbooks and memorize information can extinguish the joy of reading. As Thomas Carlyle, the renowned British novelist, expressed, “What we become depends on what we read after all of the professors have finished with us. The greatest university of all is a collection of books.” Allow your children to discover the sheer delight of reading and help them realize that books hold treasures far greater than any pirate’s loot on Treasure Island. Snuggle up with them on the couch or beanbag and read your books together.
Conclusion
In a world where distractions abound, nurturing a love of reading in our children is a gift that will enrich their lives for years to come. By implementing these five action plans—having books around the house, associating books with warmth and intimacy, being reading role models, letting children choose their books, and fostering reading for pleasure—we can help our children develop a lifelong passion for reading. Let us remember Ray Bradbury’s cautionary words, “You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them.” Therefore, let us seize this opportunity to cultivate a love of reading in our children and leave them with a remarkable legacy—their own world within the pages of a book.
Picture credit: Unknown
translated by ChatGPT
Bagaimana mengajari anak Anda untuk mencintai membaca Dr Alex Tang
Di dunia yang dipenuhi oleh berbagai gangguan dan kemajuan teknologi, cinta terhadap membaca adalah hadiah berharga yang harus kita tanamkan dalam anak-anak kita sebagai orangtua. Seperti yang dikatakan oleh Francois de Fenelon, seorang uskup agung dan direktur rohani terkemuka asal Prancis, “Jika kekayaan Hindia atau mahkota dari seluruh kerajaan Eropa diletakkan di kakiku sebagai ganti cinta saya pada membaca, saya akan menolak semuanya.” Pernyataan semacam itu mungkin jarang terdengar saat ini, tetapi kita dapat berusaha untuk membesarkan anak-anak yang memiliki perasaan yang sama. Membaca adalah kegiatan yang bermanfaat yang membantu memperkaya pikiran dan imajinasi anak.
Namun, banyak orangtua sering mengabaikan pentingnya mendorong anak-anak mereka secara aktif untuk membaca, berharap mereka akan mengembangkan kecintaan ini secara alami. Sebagai orangtua yang bertanggung jawab, kita harus mengambil langkah-langkah yang sengaja untuk menanamkan semangat membaca yang tulus dalam anak-anak kita. Dalam posting blog ini, kami akan menjelajahi pentingnya membaca dalam perkembangan anak dan membahas lima rencana tindakan untuk membantu orangtua menumbuhkan cinta yang tulus terhadap buku pada anak-anak mereka.
Rencana Tindakan 1: Lingkungan Buku di Rumah dan Asosiasi Positif
Untuk menumbuhkan kecintaan pada membaca, penting untuk menyediakan buku-buku di sekitar anak-anak. Buatlah buku menjadi hal yang biasa di rumah dengan meletakkannya di tempat yang mudah dijangkau. Pikirkanlah untuk menjadikan rak buku sebagai pusat perhatian di ruang tamu, menjauhkan perhatian dari layar. Biarkan anak-anak kecil mengeksplorasi buku-buku tersebut, meskipun mereka mungkin ingin menggigit-gigit bukunya. Tetapi pastikan koleksi buku yang berharga disimpan dengan aman, dan biarkan anak-anak merasa memiliki dan terhubung dengan buku-buku yang sudah usang atau terbuat dari karton.
Selain itu, penting juga untuk menghubungkan buku dengan kasih sayang dan kedekatan. Membacakan buku kepada anak-anak Anda akan menunjukkan betapa pentingnya kegiatan ini dan nilai yang Anda berikan pada waktu berkualitas bersama mereka. Pertimbangkan untuk bercengkerama bersama di tempat tidur untuk membacakan cerita sebelum tidur, menciptakan pengalaman yang berkesan dan intim. Jangan pernah menggunakan buku sebagai alat hukuman; selalu hubungkan buku dengan kehangatan dan kasih sayang.
Rencana Tindakan 2: Jadilah Teladan Membaca
Anak-anak mengamati dan meniru orangtua mereka, sehingga penting bagi Anda untuk menjadi seorang pembaca yang aktif. Melibatkan diri dalam kegiatan membaca di luar koran dan jurnal teknis akanmemiliki pengaruh yang besar pada anak-anak Anda. Anak-anak adalah pengamat yang peka dan mereka akan melihat Anda sebagai teladan utama mereka. Oleh karena itu, cinta Anda terhadap membaca akan sangat memengaruhi kebiasaan membaca mereka. Seperti yang pernah dikatakan oleh Harold Bloom, “Membaca dengan baik adalah salah satu kesenangan besar yang dapat diberikan kesendirian.” Biarkan pemikiran ini menggema dalam diri Anda dan pandu tindakan Anda. Jika Anda ingin anak-anak Anda membaca, Anda harus membaca juga.
Rencana Tindakan 4: Biarkan Anak Anda Memilih Buku Sendiri
Meskipun awalnya Anda memilih buku untuk anak Anda, secara bertahap beri mereka kekuasaan untuk memilih buku yang ingin mereka baca. Sediakan beragam bahan bacaan yang sesuai dengan usia mereka dan dorong mereka untuk memilih sendiri. Bahkan dengan remaja, memberikan rekomendasi masih berharga, meskipun terlihat mereka menolaknya. Setiap tahap kehidupan mereka akan membawa tema dan minat bacaan baru, seperti pesawat, dinosaurus, bajak laut, pesawat luar angkasa, dan monster. Dukung pilihan mereka dan kenalkan mereka dengan berbagai topik yang sesuai dengan usia mereka untuk melebarkan wawasan mereka. Seperti yang diungkapkan oleh E.M. Forster dengan bijak, “Satu-satunya buku yang mempengaruhi kita adalah buku-buku yang kita siapkan, dan yang telah melangkah sedikit lebih jauh di jalan kita daripada yang telah kita capai.” Itulah nilai dari orangtua yang membimbing dan berbagi dalam membaca.
Rencana Tindakan 5: Nikmati Membaca untuk Keseronokan
Membaca harus selalu dikaitkan dengan kesenangan, bukan tekanan. Hindari memaksa anak-anak Anda untuk melakukan persiapan akademik sebelum mereka siap. Mendorong mereka untuk membaca buku teks dan menghafal informasi dapat memadamkan kegembiraan membaca. Seperti yang dikatakan oleh Thomas Carlyle, novelis terkenal asal Inggris, “Siapa kita menjadi bergantung pada apa yang kita baca setelah semua profesor telah selesai dengan kita. Universitas terbesar adalah koleksi buku.” Biarkan anak-anak Anda menemukan kegembiraan membaca itu sendiri dan bantu mereka menyadari bahwa buku-buku menyimpan harta yang jauh lebih berharga daripada rampasan perompak di Treasure Island. Bersandarlah bersama mereka di sofa atau beanbag dan bacalah buku Anda bersama-sama.
Kesimpulan
Di dunia yang penuh dengan distraksi, menumbuhkan kecintaan pada membaca pada anak-anak kita adalah hadiah yang akan memperkaya hidup mereka selama bertahun-tahun mendatang. Dengan menerapkan lima rencana tindakan ini – memiliki buku di sekitar rumah, menghubungkan buku dengan kehangatan dan kedekatan, menjadi teladan membaca, membiarkan anak memilih buku mereka, dan mendorong membaca untuk kesenangan – kita dapat memb antu anak-anak kita mengembangkan semangat membaca yang tulus. Melalui lingkungan yang kaya dengan buku, asosiasi positif, dan contoh dari orangtua yang membaca, kita dapat menanamkan cinta pada membaca dalam diri mereka. Dengan memberi mereka kebebasan untuk memilih buku yang mereka sukai dan menikmati momen bersama membaca, kita membantu mereka menjadikan membaca sebagai kegiatan yang menyenangkan dan berharga.
Ingatlah, membaca adalah pintu gerbang menuju pengetahuan, imajinasi, dan pemahaman yang lebih dalam. Dengan mengajari anak-anak kita untuk mencintai membaca, kita memberi mereka alat yang kuat untuk sukses dalam kehidupan. Jadi, mulailah dengan rencana tindakan ini dan nikmati perjalanan membaca bersama anak-anak Anda.
Reading is a pleasurable activity that is often associated with childhood and youth. However, reading is not just for the young, and there are many benefits to reading when you are older. In fact, reading can be even more rewarding as you age, providing an opportunity for personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and relaxation. In this blog post, we’ll explore why reading when you’re older is important and how to get started.
1. Improves Cognitive Functioning
Reading is an excellent way to improve cognitive functioning and maintain mental agility. Studies have shown that reading can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. When we read, we engage our brains, improving concentration, memory, and vocabulary. By challenging our brains, we can also improve our problem-solving skills and analytical abilities.
2. Increases Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Reading is not just a mental exercise, but it can also enhance emotional intelligence. Reading books allows us to experience different perspectives, cultures, and ways of life. This exposure to diverse viewpoints can increase our empathy and understanding of others. Additionally, reading can help us understand and process our own emotions, improving our emotional intelligence.
3. Provides Relaxation and Stress Relief
Reading can also be a great way to unwind and reduce stress. Studies have shown that reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. When we read, we escape into another world, allowing our minds to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a fiction novel, a biography, or a self-help book, reading provides a mental break from the stressors of everyday life.
4. Expands Knowledge and Lifelong Learning
Reading is an excellent way to continue learning and expanding your knowledge. Whether it’s a new skill or a new topic, there is always something new to discover in a book. Reading provides an opportunity for lifelong learning and personal growth. It can help us stay intellectually curious and engaged, even as we age.
So, how can you get started with reading when you’re older?
1. Start with What You Enjoy
When it comes to reading, start with what you enjoy. If you love mystery novels, start there. If you’re interested in history, pick up a biography or a historical fiction novel. By starting with what you enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with it and enjoy the process.
2. Make Time for Reading
Reading is a habit, and like any habit, it takes time and consistency to develop. Make time for reading in your daily routine, whether it’s before bed or during your morning coffee. Set aside dedicated time for reading, and make it a priority.
In conclusion, reading when you’re older can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity. It provides an opportunity for personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and relaxation. By starting with what you enjoy, and making time for reading, you can develop a lifelong love of reading and continue learning and growing as you age.
The Lord of the Ring (LOTR) trilogy is made up of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and the Return of the King. These books are now the classics. Being a classic means everybody knows about them, but nobody has read them! Peter Jackson’s movies on LOTR are now more than 20 years old now but still remain a favorite amongst Middle-Earth fans. In this seminar, I will use a narrative approach to the LOTR to tease out some of the theological principles J.R.R. Tolkien had embedded into his excellent story.
This is a good time to review these books and movies, especially during the time of Lent.
I love exploring shared world-building universes. HALO is a series of award-winning video games on X-Box. In fact, it is one of the only two reasons why I bought an X-Box. The other being The Gears of War. Otherwise, I will stick to my PS4. Other than the games, which are being released way too slowly, there are numerous novels, comics, and fan-based Youtube events to keep us occupied.
I especially love novels that expand the events before and after the games itself. Just finished the latest, HALO renegade which leaves me hungering for more.
Here is a list of HALO books in their reading order
READING is such an underrated activity these days that it pains me to see people not participating in it esp the younger generation. Reading is action. Even though it is done quietly and alone, reading is a profoundly social activity and a rigorously demanding one. There is nothing passive about reading: it requires attention, energy, and an act of will.
Reading makes things happen in the mind and imagination when stoked and flamed can yield greater ideas and solutions. Reading is an act of power and learning how to get the most out of its possibilities can also be an invigorating exercise. For all its association with quietness, solitude and the sedentary life, reading involves – at its deepest level – action and interaction.
To me, it increases my dopamine levels far more than any activity like playing games. I spend a major portion of my teaching time trying to motivate students to read ( and make it a lifelong habit) for it has hit me forcefully that without a reading skill one will fail to read the Word of God with understanding.
True, education is a rigorous training of the mind but we must not take the preciousness of reading so for granted that we fail to appreciate so little the kind of thinking that a complex Bible passage requires of us. I often say if you make interpretations from a complex Bible passage you can do so for all your other academic subjects. It is overwhelmingly clear to us the need to give our children a disciplined and rigorous training in how to think an author’s thoughts after him from a text esp a Biblical text.
An alphabet must be learned as well as vocabulary, grammar, syntax, the rudiments of logic and the way meaning is imparted through sustained connections of sentences and paragraphs. An understanding of any passage requires rigorous thought and mental effort.
We would have failed our younger generation if we hadn’t brought them up to appreciate reading and mentor them to stick to it even when exams are over. Of course, I am very aware of the many problems associated with difficulties in reading and word association that have hampered students from progress because a deficiency in mastering a language is almost akin to a block in academic growth. Hence I aim to apply concepts learned in educational Neuroscience as well as work with the specialists in this field to help those students. But the larger population of young people blessed with a brain that can read normally – what are you doing about inculcating a lifelong habit of reading?
I always wonder why I write. Writing is not an easy task. It is not just putting words on to paper or inputting data into a word processor. Writing needs content. These content needs to have meaning. This means that it has to be ordered and structured. All this is hard work. After writing is the part I hate- editing, proofreading and rewriting. Ernest Hemingway, a prolific writes comments, “There is nothing at all to writing. All you do is to sit down at a typewriter and bleed”! So why do I write? Five reasons comes to mind and I am sure I will be able to add a few more when this piece is finished. Writing is a task that is never ‘finished’.
Firstly, I write because it is a way to clarify to myself what I am thinking. Thinking is another hard thing to do. In the process of writing down what I am thinking, I am actualizing my thoughts. I am making my thoughts real as I fashion it into words. I am ordering them. Choosing the right word, the appropriate syntax and the context, I am making my thoughts ‘real’. Without that, I have a lot of free floating thoughts that mostly end up nowhere.
Secondly, writing helps me to focus. There are many distractions in my life and I am very weak in resisting distractions. Writing helps me to anchor my thoughts and feelings onto one area. It helps me to focus, concentrate and think deeper. It opens different possibilities and realities. It helps me to ask the right questions and seek the correct answers. It helps me to examine my life and my motivations. It brings to light what in hidden in my subconscious.
Thirdly, writing helps me to be disciplined. To be able to write means I have to sit somewhere within reach of a keyboard. In assembling the alphabets into words, I am building a discipline of writing. To improve, I have to practice. I have set myself a target of writing 500 words every day. If I write 500 words a day, in one non-leap year I would have written 182,500 words which will turn out nicely to be a book! Hopefully, I will be a better writer because of that.
Fourthly, writing is a form of keeping records. A written piece is a snapshot of my life at a moment in time. It is a sum of my lived experiences and my life of the mind. It is also a record of that moment. That is why in Christian traditions, journaling is regarded as a form of spiritual discipline. Journaling as spiritual discipline focuses on a person’s experiences with God in his daily life. Augustine’s The Confessions may be the earliest autobiographical Christian journal. Notable Puritans such William Law’s A Devout and Holy Life and Letters of Samuel Rutherford are other examples of journaling which are edifying to its readers.
Finally, writing is my act of worship if I am able to share my limited experience of him and his revelations of himself through his word and works. Writing allows me to share what he has taught me. It allows me to be transparent and be authentic. Of course, there is the temptation to extol myself and my achievements. That will be the antithesis of my writings. I write to share Christ and to share in the fellowship of the witnesses that surrounds me. My writing is my statement of my witness of him.
Writing is a spiritual discipline if spiritual discipline is a holy habit to draw us closer to God. As Eric Lindell commented on his running as portrayed in the 1981 movie Chariots of Fire said, “I believe God made me for a purpose and he made me fast and as I run I feel his pleasure.” I write to know myself and to experience God. And hopefully, as you read my writings, you will get to know him too.