Since my earliest days, the gravitational force of books has been an unwavering constant in my life. I can vividly recollect the weekly pilgrimage orchestrated by my mother guiding my brother and me to the library with contagious enthusiasm for the world of literature. This routine instilled a sense of discipline; we’d eagerly prepare, don our shoes and anxiously await the appointed time. Once within the hallowed walls of the library our paths diverged—my brother to the graphic novels and I to the enchanting realm of fiction, where the worlds crafted by Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl awaited.
In contrast, my school library adorned with aged tomes whose pages had weathered with time, offered a unique allure. Despite the mandatory weekly library period, a prevailing hush often stifled the curiosity of young minds. I’d borrow books as a matter of obligation, yet they remained untouched. It was my mother who catalyzed a genuine love for reading by securing our coveted library memberships. The library walls hold a mystical allure in the tapestry of my life. Anticipating the weekends became a ritual, as I eagerly crossed the threshold into the enchanting aisles, seeking the perfect book to accompany me through the week. With each turned page, a transfiguration occurred whisking me away into fantastical realms where I traversed distant places and embarked on extraordinary adventures. This literary odyssey fostered a penchant for dreaming, infusing the ordinary facets of life with a perpetual search for magic.
My enduring passion for reading persisted throughout my high school years, even after my transition to the esteemed boarding school nestled in the Himalayan foothills, known as The Lawrence School, Sanawar. The expansive library, aptly named ‘Parker Hall,’ marked a significant upgrade from my previous convent school library. Following the rigors of each school day, I made it a ritual to pause at the library on my way back to the dormitory, eager to explore its vast collection of books. Furthermore, I supplemented my literary adventures by bringing books from home, ranging from The Harry Potter Series to The Twilight Series.
The annual Scholastic Book Fairs became a delightful indulgence, a time when I would eagerly immerse myself in the joy of selecting and acquiring new books. My enthusiasm often led to an overflow of books on my study table, creating a captivating yet slightly chaotic literary landscape. When exam season arrived, the academic demands took precedence, temporarily displacing my leisure reading. However, the moment the last exam concluded, a palpable sense of anticipation would set in. Swiftly, I would retrieve my current read, marked by a bookmark, and seamlessly resume my literary journey from where I had momentarily paused.
This affinity for reading has accompanied me steadfastly throughout my academic odyssey—from student to research scholar and now as a professor. It has proven transformative, unlocking the gates to expansive thinking, deep dives into subjects and the delicate balancing act between reason and emotion. Each chapter turned has been a stepping stone shaping my intellectual growth and enriching the tapestry of my experiences. The world of literature has not only been my refuge but also a guiding light, illuminating my path as I navigate the diverse realms of academia.
As I stand at the intersection of past, present and future, the pages of countless books have woven a narrative of continuous learning, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the boundless treasures that lie within the written word. Instilling the habit of reading in young minds serves as the seed for a lifelong journey that extends far beyond academic pursuits. The act of reading not only contributes to academic growth but also molds individuals into well-rounded citizens. It serves as a beacon, imparting valuable lessons in patience and fostering critical thinking skills. The early cultivation of a reading habit lays the foundation for a future where individuals navigate the complexities of life with a broader perspective and a deep well of knowledge.
Dr. Amreen Sekhon
The author is a Doctorate in Psychology and an Assistant Professor.
