Day 1: The Book That Changed My Life

I’ve always loved books, as a child I can always remember bringing books wherever I went. Before the dawn of smartphones, I avoided human interaction by opening a book whenever I’m waiting for something or sitting at a party. Well right now, I avoid human interaction by pretending to text/message someone on my phone. Hihi. Yes, I was that kind of person, the kind whose nose is always buried between a book. I remember not having much toys, I only had books. I’ve always wanted a Tamagtochi or a Polly Pocket (90s kid here), but what I got was a complete Encyclopaedia set, which in my opinion, is a LOT better.

There are millions of books, each one containing a world that is unique to the author, but sometimes a good book, a really magnificent book can mold you as an individual. That book for me is Sophie’s World.

Its a book describing the history of philosophy through letters to a girl named Sophie. Oddly enough, I never finished the book, but I always vividly remember reading the first half of the book. This book taught me how to think. I was introduced to the different schools of philosophy throughout the ages. I believe human intellect is a mystery, an ever greater mystery than the physical world. Because the physical world can be described in terms of equations and laws which abide them but the human mind cannot. We can only see patterns and try to rationalize the thinking process but there is no clear formula for that. I’ve always wondered about our existence, maybe that is why I’ve always thought that maybe I am not living life to the fullest. That, I think, is greatly influenced by Sophie’s World.

If I were to ask ‘why’ I read, my quick response is ‘I want to feel what other people feel’. I want to emphatize with their situation, with their thoughts, and with their behavior. I believe that the best way to do this is by reading. You do not only see their actions or hear their words, you actually get to FEEL what they are feeling and SEE what they are seeing. And that, I guess, is a magical experience beyond anything.

So pick up a book today! Immerse yourself in a world other than your own and at the same time, have fun doing it. :)