When I was a kid, I didn't like reading books and rarely opened them. The thought of sitting down with a book seemed boring, and I wasn't interested in the stories inside. During my elementary and high school years, I barely touched my books and only skimmed through them to get by in class. Reading for fun was something I couldn't understand, and I didn't get why people spent their free time with their noses in a book. But everything changed later on, in ways I never expected.
I'm not saying this to show off, but now I'm a big fan of collecting books. It's more than just a hobby for me; it's something I'm really into. This love for books started in high school and keeps growing, even now that I'm in college. My room is full of books of all kinds, neatly placed on shelves that I've had to make bigger over the years. Each book is special to me and shows how much my love for reading has changed.
So, what caused this big change? How did I go from avoiding books to collecting them?
It all started when a friend introduced me to an app called Wattpad. On this app, writers from all over the world share their stories. At first, I was unsure. Reading on my phone seemed weird, but my friend kept encouraging me to try it. The first story I read was Project Loki by AkoSiIbarra. As I read, I got completely hooked. The characters, the twists in the story, and the emotions pulled me in like never before. For the first time, I understood why people loved getting lost in a book.
Interestingly, my first physical book was also by Akosiibarra-Project Loki Vol. 1 Part 1. I remember how excited I was to hold the book, feeling the pages in my hands, and the thrill of turning each one. The story was so engaging and it matched my growing interest in Criminology. At the time, I was fascinated by crime-solving and mysteries, and this book fit perfectly with that. It was more than just a story; it was an experience that showed me how powerful books can be.
Now, I love books. They have become my best friends when I'm alone, sad, or even happy. They are a source of comfort and joy, helping me escape from the real world. Whether I'm having a tough day or celebrating something good, I know I can always turn to my books. They have this amazing way of taking me to different worlds and introducing me to characters who feel like old friends.
Collecting books has also made me appreciate the effort that goes into writing stories. Each book is a special creation by its author, giving us a peek into different ideas and perspectives. I cherish every book I own, from the worn-out ones to the new, sealed copies. My collection isn't just a hobby; it's a part of my journey and shows how much I've grown along the way.
Looking back, it's funny how something I once hated has become such an important part of my life. Books have not only entertained me for hours but also helped shape who I am today. They've taught me to understand others, be creative, and see things from different viewpoints. So, even though I wasn't a reader when I was younger, I'm thankful for the journey that brought me here. Now, I can't imagine my life without my beloved books.
YOU ARE READING
Whispers of Insight
Non-FictionA collection of sudden realizations, reflections, and questions, expressed through short stories, poems, essays, and photo essays.