Saturday, March 2, 2024
“Read For One Hour”
Today is National Read Across America Day, celebrated each year on Dr. Seuss’ birthday to encourage reading, especially for children. We want our children to read because we know it’ll help them.
I had a close friend in elementary school who read all the time. He used to get in trouble with our teachers because he was always reading paperback novels. He constantly kept a paperback under his math or social studies book, trying to conceal what he was really doing. I thought that was so silly…if one gets in trouble with the teacher, at least get caught doing something fun like eating candy or sleeping.
Then, after we reached high school, I began to notice that his class ranking kept improving while mine kept getting worse. Finally, as we began to take the entrance exams required for college, I saw first-hand the results of all his reading. He reached some of the highest scores of anyone and I’ve always attributed it to his fascination and obsession with reading.
Of course, I’m sure there’s more to the story than that. He has a beautiful family, is professionally successful, and lives in a big house and nice neighborhood. He probably has French champagne with his dinner every night and golden a toothbrushe on the side of the sink. I am not jealous at all. I’m just frustrated and a tiny bit mad at myself for not reading more when I was younger.
Since I know that I should be reading more for my personal enjoyment and relaxation, I’m going to make myself read today. In fact, I think it might be good if you read along with me.
Today’s Lenten Challenge is to read for one hour. Even if we don’t choose the most educational periodical to read, we’ll still be a little smarter after we’re finished. Let’s get it done! Read for one hour today!
“But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without a second thought, without keeping score. Wisdom will certainly be given to those who ask.” (James 1:5, CEB)
