Understanding I Understand

Question: Do you know how it feels to truly understand, to truly relate to something you read?
If not, take it from me...it is such a grand and marvelous feeling. Since I was a little girl, then a young woman, I have always enjoyed reading. Can't say that I loved it...to be honest but, I enjoyed it. When I was younger living in Chicago, my father used to tell me, "Veronica...always remember to read, read, read, know your history, the truth lays between those pages. You have to read, read, read." Back then I thought he was crazy, regardless of what he said, I enjoyed reading. I enjoyed reading so much that I wrote a childrens book in the 6th grade entitled "The Big Worm that Ate the Cat." True Story. In hind sight, whatever I put my mind to...I always manange to do it. I thank God for such awesome drive.
As many of you know, I am away right now. I am using this time for reflection, amongst other things. The first book that I have cracked open is entitled "Opening to Spirit" by Caroline Shola Arewa. Such a good read, I recommend it to anyone In Search Of. As I am reading this book, it's crazy how much of it I already relate to...I can't really explain it. I suppose in the company of my friends, we talk about some of the exact some things she speaks of in this book. Almost like, this book choose me in stead of the other way around. It is such a wonderful feeling to know that by the time I finish reading this book I will have more understanding of the knowledge I was seeking in the beginning. I was reaching out instead of reaching in.
I am looking forward to digesting this book. Speaking of books, I want to tear a page from my fathers book and encourage everyone to read more. Turn of the television and turn a page in a book. Read something fulfilling, something that you can share with children in the neighborhood, one of the "Did You Know" type of books. Read something that by the time you finish you will feel as if you have moved closer to the head of the class. Reading for entertainment it cool but read something heavy, fall asleep and wake up reading. Gosh it feels good.
"Read, read, read"...said my father, Mervyn Gilmore Hinds.