This past holiday season I went through my annual ritual of being afraid I wouldn’t have enough good things to read over the break. This hearkens back to the days before Kindle and electronic downloads and multiple library cards, when I would have to load up on titles from my local library, which would allow me to borrow only ten titles at a time. What if it snowed and I couldn’t get back to borrow more books? The heart palpatations were real.
My fear has since expanded into worrying that I won’t have enough good books to read ever–not confined to the end of December, but at any time. Period. Which is totally silly, because I now have four library cards and the ability to read electronically. I subscribe to newsletters that offer up discounted books.
So the emphasis has switched to good books. Compelling stories. When I reach the end of book that I can’t put down, I start wondering if I’ll be able to find another tale that keeps my attention. One that makes me stay awake at night until I’m so groggy I can’t hold my eyes open and the Kindle falls from my fingers.
Lately it feels as if I have stumbled into books that sound wonderful but fail to deliver. Stories I have to force myself to finish. Sometimes, getting through the opening chapters is worth the slog, but most other times, well, no. So I worry that reading will no longer enterain me.
We all have our foibles. Thank you for listening to mine.
PS: Tomorrow (Jan 8) is National Joy Germ Day. Spread some happiness!
