Thankful for Reading

The month of November is often viewed as a time for reflecting on the many reasons we have to be thankful.  On Facebook, many members use the entire month to site their various reasons for being grateful.  Has anyone ever considered the blessing that is the ability to read?  I may not be the first to say it, but I am extremely thankful for being able to read.

As a shy and somewhat awkward first grader, I remember being nervous about reading time.  During this era, a method known as Round Robin Reading was commonly acceptable.  Upon being called on by the teacher, students would take turns reading aloud.  I hated this!  For some time during these early years, I did not view my self as a good reader; because reading aloud in front of others scared me something awful.  I would stutter and stammer to complete my assigned reading and feel an overwhelming sense of relief when the teacher said, "Next".

During those days, I would have never thought that I would grow up with the love that I now have for reading.  Over the years, I improved and thankfully so did instructional practices.  By fourth grade, I was reading above grade level and by sixth grade I was truly an avid reader.

I do not know what separated me from other people who started out as fearful readers.  Why did I ultimately thrive?  What about my educational, social or family past created a pathway that would lead me to love reading the way I do today?  I may not have immediate answers to these questions but I do know is that I am extremely thankful for reading.  There are far too many who cannot say the same.  What I do know is that reading has been a God send for me.  It's an escape when I need one.  It provides valuable information when I'm curious; and most of all, its just plain fun!  If you love reading like I do, share the joy with the young people in your life.  Reading is truly a gift and a blessing.  Happy Reading!