The other day I went to one of my favourite cafés to do some work. It was the first time I had ever been there on on a Saturday. I ordered my coffee and found a very nice spot to sit with a very comfortable chair and a table of just the perfect height for a good typing posture.
I thought I'd set up my computer and connect to the free WiFi while waiting for my coffee, but as I glanced at the board to read the password, I noticed the sign "Screen Free Saturdays". Crap! I had already paid for the coffee, and now I can't work?
There were no "devices" allowed either, so no iPads, iPhones, Blackberries or whatever. Not even Kindles were allowed. Apparently the only activities encouraged were reading (paper books), chit chatting with someone, and daydreaming.
As I had already bought my coffee, I went along with it, but you know, I quickly warmed to the idea. I wasn't there with anyone, and I didn't have any books with me, so I opted for daydreaming and people-watching. I did quite a bit of introspection actually, and I must say, I really enjoyed it.
It also made me consider the idea of going back to reading. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm no avid reader, but I have struggled through a few books in my time. The ones I managed to finish, I remember really enjoying. It's amazing what the mind's eye can conjure up while reading. I don't think any CGI or cinematography in existence today can match the stuff that goes on in my head when reading a SciFi novel. The mind has no limits in that respect.
Apart from exercising one's mind, reading also grows the mind. It depends very much on what one reads of course, but avid readers on average have a larger vocabulary and can spell better. They also exhibit better comprehension skills than those that don't read. This is so clear when I compare myself to my sister. When we were young, she would read two to three books a week!
I know I can read off a computer or phone screen, but somehow it isn't the same. I am, however, concerned about the dead tree issue when it comes to paper books. Perhaps I should get a Kindle. Also, if the book has already been made, the harm is already done right? There are plenty of old books out there that I could chose from.
There are several cafés, libraries and book shops where I can go to find books. I think some of these places even allow you to swap out books - you bring a book and take a book. There even was a place that gave away free books. You could pick up to 6 books for free per week.
Anyhow, I have decided to give it a go - reading. Just some time to be quiet in my mind and read however slowly as needed. I'm an extremely slow reader.
What are you reading currently? Any recommendations?
Adé
Peace and Love ✌🏿
Adé
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