“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.”
Isn’t this saying apt? To begin with, let’s ponder, what are the qualities one looks for in a good or best friend?
Definitely one would want a friend who is always there for you when needed. It’s well said, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Every interaction with one’s close or best friend should ideally be intellectually stimulating and fun enough to distract one from whatever anxiety or stress one may be going through
This best friend should inspire you, provoke your curiosity, and encourage you to explore new ideas, environments, worlds, and insights. Perhaps, this friend could also enable us to discover a thing or two about you. Many also say that having great friendships can lead to more sound sleep because we feel relaxed and contented at the end of the day.
But is it possible for one person or a friend to have all these qualities? It could be for some, but for the most of us to find a friend who encapsulates all these virtues might be really tough, if not impossible. And that’s precisely why we must take resort to reading good books and getting lost in the world created by it!
Good Books have rightly been called a Man’s (and a woman’s) best friend since reading became accessible for all with the invention of the printing press in the 15th century. The fact that one can always take a good book as one’s friend for reducing mental stress and to gain knowledge are some of the wonderful reasons why books are so cherished.
Reading books can also have significant positive impacts on the emotional health of children as well as adults. Books relax our mind, body and soul. They lead us to the path of knowledge, inspiring us with creative ideas so that we face the humdrum of our daily lives, refreshed and rejuvenated.
But is it possible for one person or a friend to have all these qualities? It could be for some, but for the most of us to find a friend who encapsulates all these virtues might be really tough, if not impossible. And that’s precisely why we must take resort to reading good books and getting lost in the world created by it!
Good Books have rightly been called a Man’s (and a woman’s) best friend since reading became accessible for all with the invention of the printing press in the 15th century. The fact that one can always take a good book as one’s friend for reducing mental stress and to gain knowledge are some of the wonderful reasons why books are so cherished.
Reading books can also have significant positive impacts on the emotional health of children as well as adults. Books relax our mind, body and soul. They lead us to the path of knowledge, inspiring us with creative ideas so that we face the humdrum of our daily lives, refreshed and rejuvenated.
Like any other great friendship, reading books, require commitment and investment of time. In return the dividend, this friendship pays off is unmatched.
According to a student of mine and an avid reader, “reading a good book is like living so many lives. One passes through different characters-their lives, experiences and many critical situations.” “We learn to overcome hurdles of life in a positive manner!” She further expounds, making me dwell in wonder at her intelligence which certainly has been gained from reading ferociously. Hence it is rightly said, “A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading.”
Happy Reading!
Author: Ms. ANJANA UBEROI, English Faculty, MRIS-51 Gurugram.
