I'd rather be reading

When I was younger, my grandmother told me that once you can read, there's nothing in the world you can't learn.  Let me tell you, the woman knew what she was talkin' about.

The moment I picked up a book on my own, I knew I had discovered something special.  Reading became a way for me experience things I couldn't in actuality.  I wasn't able to ride horses, so I soaked up as much written information about them as I could. (The Phantom Stallion series was my very favorite, still is).  I lived in land-locked Colorado, so I devoured tales of the sea.  I've never truly been in love, so I wanted to know about it in all its many forms. I was instantly transported into every different type of world imaginable just by picking a book.  They were my escape when my real life became too much to handle.  When I couldn't sleep, I'd imagine I was in whatever book I was reading at the time, adding things here and there.  I've always brought books with me wherever I go because you never know when you'll have a spare minute or two.  Words can be a powerful thing when written well and they've taught me, and continue to teach me, new ways to look at myself, those around me and the world.  I've never understood the people who find reading to be a chore.  I've always felt sorry for them, because they have no idea what magic they're missing.   Books have been like a dearest friend, there with me throughout the milestones of life, and when things get rough, they're ready with open arms to welcome me back to that secret, safe place where nothing can hurt me. 

I hope you have a place like that. A special spot, whether literal or not, that is yours alone, to dream and learn and explore new worlds.

Peace,

Niki