How Learning English Turned Me into an Avid Reader
Back in middle school, I had signed up for a library service that rolled up to our school once a week with a van full of books. I never really clicked with the school textbooks, which is probably why my grades were so-so. But I remember the thrill of picking out my own reading material.
I really loved that van.
One book that really stuck with me was about World War I or II — can’t recall which. It might have been a memoir or a novel, but it delved into a soldier’s life in the trenches. That book left a lasting impression on me, not just because of its content which was amazing but because of the sheer joy of reading it. It sparked something in me, a love for reading that has stayed with me ever since.
It All Started with Trying to Learn English on My Own
After dropping out of my English class, I started searching for ways to learn the language on my own. I came across a guy who was a digital nomad, sharing his language-learning journey. I got hooked on his blog and found myself diving deeper into his posts and book recommendations, especially ‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.’
At that time, I wasn’t just trying to learn English; I was also battling depression. Those were really tough times. I had dropped out of school, gotten married, and was stuck in a job (I was doing it in home) I absolutely loathed. It was crushing.
So, I picked up the book and read it. It resonated with me, and I really needed it. My messed-up way of thinking and skewed perception of the world had led me to that depression and wrecked my health. I was determined to turn things around.
That marked the beginning of my journey as an avid reader.
