The Great Escape
There have been many losses and frustrations during the shutdown of the past two years, and I have missed traveling and adventures out in the world. However I have found solace and comfort in many things at home, including learning to bake and reading. I’ve always loved to read, and I find myself relishing every moment I now spend with a good book.
Even though I’m not getting on planes to attend conferences and performances, I am currently journeying through Rivendell with Frodo the Hobbit and having a grand time. I’ve not read The Lord of the Rings since high school and the time seemed right to escape into this fantasy world. I’ve also recently enjoyed some Star Wars books, fascinating self-help reads, and fun humorous romps. My favorite is Dickens! My tastes are eclectic and I’m never bored if I have a book in my hand.
Reading allows us to see through another’s eyes, feeling their emotions and broadening our experience in the world. Sadly, many people never read a book once they leave school. and it shows. I find that many around me are suffering from a severe lack of empathy. This is perhaps the greatest challenge to our culture. The ability to imagine the world through someone else’s eyes allows us to face the world with more grace and kindness.
A few years ago I was so busy and found myself so intent on making my businesses grow that I greatly reduced the amount of time I took to read. And I paid for this choice. I found myself overworked, exhausted, and terribly grumpy. When I realized this and gave myself permission to escape into a good book most every day, my life improved dramatically. Everyone around me was thankful.
Take time to read, to see the world from another perspective, to grow! Read to your children, read the book before you see the movie (it’s always better), and be another light bringing grace and empathy to our world.
Tim Hinton
February 1, 2022
