“The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.“
– Mark Twain (1835-1910), a distinguished American writer, humorist, and essayist. He was widely acclaimed as “the greatest humorist the United States has ever seen”. Twain’s literary works encompass renowned novels such as ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ (1876) and its sequel, ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ (1884), the latter often hailed as the “Great American Novel”.
HELLO dear readers! I would like to take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for joining me as we embark on the third season of ’Life Senses’.
Over the past months, we have delved into our emotional and physical senses, transforming our understanding of well-being.
Now, it’s time to pivot our focus toward the intellectual sense – a journey of the mind that will inspire us to think deeper, explore further, and ignite our imaginations. Intellectual sense, as the name suggests, refers to our capacity for thought, understanding, and the pursuit of knowledge.
The world-renowned psychiatrist and author, Dr Howard Gardner, speaks of the importance of cultivating intellectual curiosity in his book ‘Frames of Mind’. Gardner emphasises that nurturing our intellectual abilities is not merely a luxury but rather a fundamental aspect of being human.
He states, “Intellectual development is a lifelong process; it enriches our lives, helps us navigate our world, and enables us to understand our place in it.”
God has indeed gifted us with the ability to think, reason, and imagine. This extraordinary gift allows us to question, learn, and innovate. It empowers us to connect dots between seemingly disparate ideas and fosters a sense of wonder and awe.
To fully harness this intellectual sense, we must engage actively with the world around us, question our assumptions, and immerse ourselves in knowledge that invites reflection and curiosity.
One of the most profound ways to nurture our intellectual sense is through reading. In our fast-paced, technology-driven society, the act of reading is often overlooked or diminished to mere information consumption.
However, reading is so much more; it’s an invitation to transformation, an experience that can elevate our minds and invite us into new realms of understanding.
As the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) states, “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope,” highlighting the essential nature of reading in shaping an informed and compassionate society.
But what is reading? At its core, reading is the act of decoding symbols – letters and words – to create meaning. Yet, its impact goes far beyond the mechanics of understanding text.
Reading allows us to step into the shoes of others, inviting us to experience diverse perspectives and cultures. It’s a portal that leads us into different worlds, stimulates our critical thinking, and enhances our empathy.
Imagine for a moment the joy of being transported into the lush, green landscapes of a fantastical realm in a novel, or the profound wisdom found within the pages of a philosophical treatise. Each page turned is a new journey, offering infinite possibilities for exploration and introspection.
Nobel laureate Toni Morrison once said, “If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.”
Reading allows us to shed the burdens of the mundane and soar into the limitless skies of our imagination. To truly experience the joy of reading, we must approach it with intention and curiosity.
Here are a few tips to enrich your reading experience:
First off, choose wisely. Think about the last book that pulled us in. For many, it’s often a gripping thriller or an engaging memoir.
For instance, reading ‘Educated’ by Tara Westover might resonate profoundly with someone who values education but struggles with their academic path. The authenticity of Tara’s voice and the challenges she faced create a connection that can be enlightening.
A friend once shared, “Reading that book made me reassess my educational journey. It wasn’t just a story; it felt like a mirror reflecting my experiences.”
Next, create a ritual around your reading habit. Imagine sinking into a comfy chair with a warm cup of tea at hand, lights dimmed just right.
You might recall the author Neil Gaiman’s words, “A book is a dream that you hold in your hand.”
Make your reading space inviting. Whether it’s a cosy nook at home or a sunny spot at a café, carve out a sanctuary where distractions fade away. This personal space can transform reading into a cherished daily ritual.
Once we dive into a book, engage with the text. Don’t be afraid to underline passages or scribble thoughts in the margins.
For example, when reading ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho, a reader might stop midway to jot down insights about pursuing one’s dreams. Active engagement isn’t just about absorbing information; it’s about creating a dialogue with the author.
A former professor once told me, “When students annotate their texts, they’re participating in a larger conversation about ideas. It makes the experience overwhelmingly richer.”
Join a community of readers, too! Conversations can elevate your understanding of a book. Sharing your thoughts with friends or participating in a book club can reveal fresh interpretations.
I vividly remember discussing Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s ‘Americanah’ with my friends in China; everyone brought their unique backgrounds and views, leading to profound discussions on identity and race.
Finally, take time to reflect on our reading experience. After completing a book, ask ourselves about the emotions it stirred. Did it make you laugh? Cry? Challenge your beliefs? Reflecting on your reading can lead to invaluable insights.
Incorporating these practices can transform our reading from a mere pastime into a profound journey. After all, reading is not just about the stories; it’s about the connections we make, the insights we gain, and the growth we experience through them. So, grab a book today, and let your adventure begin!
As we embark on this exploration of the intellectual sense, I invite all of you to join me in cultivating a culture of reading.
Much like how Proverbs 18:15 states, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out,” we must develop the discipline to seek knowledge through reading. Let it be a wellspring of joy and discovery that nourishes our minds and fuels our imaginations.
In a world that often moves at breakneck speed, taking the time to carve out moments for reading may seem daunting, yet it is a vital act of self-care and empowerment. As the United Nations recognises, education is not only fundamental to the individual but vital for global development.
Our responsibility flourishes through reading, as highlighted in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Article 27 states, “Everyone has the right to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits.”
Embracing reading is a way to uphold this right – by becoming informed citizens, we contribute positively to our communities.
As we embrace the joy of reading, it’s essential to remember that this journey is not just personal; it contributes to a greater culture of knowledge and understanding within our communities.
By fostering a love of reading, we strengthen the intellectual fabric of our society. Reading can empower us, foster creativity, and ultimately contribute to a more enlightened society.
Dear readers, may you find boundless joy in the pages of books. May reading become not just a hobby, but a culture – a shared journey toward intellectual growth and enlightenment.
Embrace this gift, and let it enrich your life in ways you never thought possible. After all, every great adventure begins with a single page turned.
Next week, I look forward to journeying with you as we explore critical thinking skills and techniques that can enhance your reasoning and decision-making abilities.
Together, we will uncover ways to sharpen your intellect and empower your choices. Until then, happy reading!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
