There was a time in my life that I did not like reading. Not one bit. I would sit in class and pretend to read the words on the pages in front of me, but I couldn’t quite get into it. I would watch the other kids around me become engrossed in their stories and wonder about the joys they were experiencing. Then something happened – I found books that made me want to read. I began reading at such a ferocious rate that I was constantly looking for a new one. More than 15 years later and with more responsibilities than I can count, I still find myself reaching for those books that have brought me moments of peace.
Books, particularly those of the fiction variety, allow us to enter a world wholly separate from our own and escape from the stresses of the life going on around us. There is value in being able to take a step into another world while freeing ourselves from rumination of the past and worries of the future. In times of trouble, we may enter the worlds of wildflower-loving wyverns, magical schools bent towards destruction, and reluctant heroines downplaying their power. Through their stories, I find myself challenging my own beliefs about what it means to be human while also empathizing with their struggles, cheering them on, and occasionally experiencing second-hand embarrassment from their choices.
When I am choosing a book to read, I have a strong preference for character-driven stories. I want to understand the characters' motivations, histories, feelings, thoughts, and actions. It’s what keeps me turning the pages. Perhaps, that is also what I love about being a therapist. While I may not be able to bear witness to fire-breathing dragons who hoard wealth in my office, I do get to meet reluctant heroines, heroes lost on the journey, and survivors determined to make change. From my vantage point, I walk with people on their healing journeys and act as a living reminder of their progress – growth others in their lives may never get to see. It is a privilege in that sense, to be able to witness the hard work and courage it takes to grow. If you have a story to tell, we are here to listen.
