Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Knowledge Is Power and Books Are My Friends


Books are my friends. Interestingly, I wasn't really a bookworm when I was young. We did not have any bedtime reading routines when I was a baby or toddler or preschool. I did not read books in elementary except when it's a required homework in which I needed to make a report. In high school, my friend Cecille got me hooked to reading those "High School" romance books. It was fun. But those were the only ones I read (again except for the required reading in school).

In college, I started hanging out in the library, partly because I like the quietness of the place in between my classes. I started reading a lot of psychology books while I was hanging out there, because I am totally fascinated by the topics in psychology. Novels did not appeal to me as much as informational books. When I became a Christian (in college) I enjoyed reading a lot of the writing of well known teachers and preachers.

During one of our marital counseling sessions, our dear counselor made a very good observation about me. She said that "reading books" is one of the ways in which I cope with my worries and anxieties. It's my MO (modus operandi) in dealing with stuff. When I read about things and situations I feel better, I feel more confident. Thus, my conclusion that "reading produces knowledge and knowledge produces power".

Come to think of it, reading books really help me cope up with situation that otherwise I would have felt helpless, lost or insecure. One of these days I'll share a list of the most excellent and helpful books I have encountered. But for now, I'll just share a photo (above) of one of my bookshelves. I have more books than what's shown on the photo but the photo is a good example of the kind of books I am reading nowadays :) ....

UPDATE 9/27/07: I am entering this post as my Sunday Scribblings post for this week. The prompt is powerful ... and like what I said on my post, books can helps us to be powerful.

21 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nice bookshelf and, yes, nice books.

I just LOVE reading. I've been a reader since I was young (I started off with the classics). However, these days, it's kinda hard for me to find some extra time to read all the books I'd like to read. I know that it's the same with you (based on your e-mail).

Anonymous said...

That must be one of the reasons I love to read too! Interesting concept. Never thought of it that way!

Andrea Frazer said...

Liza - You remind me of myself in a way. You get a thought in your head and then you stew and stew. So you are turning to God now, and books, books to calm that storm in your head. I so get it. Thanks for sharing.

Kristen said...

I'm the same way. I never read as a kid, but I love it now.

Anonymous said...

like your book shelf
some very interesting books especially that blogging book
ive been looking out for one for ages
thanks for sharing interesting post
i LOVE reading

raqgold said...

hi liza, i love books too and i have also this dream of publishing one in the near future :-) meanwhile, i learn and collect my thoughts for my dream book by reading more books!

Anonymous said...

I can relate. I have become a much more avid reader as an adult. I love getting lost in a great book.

Kamsin said...

I totally retreat into books when I'm stressed or need to recharge. I love reading novels, but also love reading newspapers and magazines too. I read non-fiction when I'm really interested in a topic, but I love to get lost in fiction and the poetry of the language a talented writer can produce. And I agree that books can give us energy and strength to face the world.

Anonymous said...

I loved your post and the pic of your bookshelf. I love to read and I always have.

I think that power through the knowledge of books is a rewarding feeling.

Menopauseprincess said...

I used to love reading, then I discovered the spawn of satan-audiobooks!

Now my ability to read is shot, no more patience. Sigh.

Anonymous said...

I read all the time and all kinds of books.

I got a book review blog too.

Just click on my name to reach there!

Crafty Green Poet said...

I love reading too and yes it can make us powerful.

paisley said...

well... it is true,, books have empowered you through advanced education,, your choice of religious affiliation and even in bettering your marriage... do you ever just read for fun?????

Patois42 said...

I do believe in the power of reading. I love your description of it. Nice use of the prompt.

Unknown said...

Well said, Liza. I hadn't thought of it that way but knowledge is a form of power. If books equal power then I must be in great shape.

Anonymous said...

Grandma used to worry that I would wear my eyes out reading.
The road of my life has been paved by many great books.
Great post.

bonggamom said...

Love your title, it's so true! Knowledge and education have the power to improve people's lives.

Forgetfulone said...

Wouldn't I like to copy your post!? I love books, and I do believe that knowledge is power.

Jennifer Hicks said...

filling your head also fills your soul!

Tumblewords: said...

Oh, books! What's not to love? The more books, the better. Nice post!

Marie said...

I never thought of books as a coping mechanism, but I suppose it is. I LOVE my books and they are my friends...when I get stuck, they are always available... I enjoyed your post!