A lucky break

For the past eight years, I have read between 20 and 30 books annually, a total of nearly 200 books. It’s been a good mix of fiction and poetry, biography and memoir, and lots of other non-fiction (including textbooks, self-development, and history).

I’ve always enjoyed reading, but my consistency stems from a belief that I very luckily stumbled across as a young man.

At the time, I looked around and saw so much suffering: my family, my friends, people on the streets and on the news, and of course, myself. We were all suffering in one way or another (or several others!).

And I thought to myself: “Some people I know are suffering and terribly unhappy. Other people I see are gracious, loving, and inspiring just to be around. What makes the difference? Humans have been around for thousands of years. Surely someone, somewhere has learned the Secrets of Life and written them down: how to live without suffering; how to live virtuously and honestly; how to be successful, wealthy, and respected; how to be happy, fulfilled, and beloved by other honorable people; how to a be a Light for others.”

Ever since then, I have pursued wisdom - and encountered it - everywhere. At first, it was in books, but I’ve found great wisdom in people, in their words, their stories, their deeds.

Thinking back, I realize what a grand journey my life has been because of this pursuit, ignited by the belief that there is wisdom to be found for those that seek it. I still seek wisdom, but it’s from a much more peaceful, aware, accepting - and yes, accomplished - place.

Talk about a lucky break.