Nine years ago I sat in my best friend's armchair as she started a book group. I was there as a one off to give her moral support in case anyone difficult turned up. A whole bunch of lovely people later and I'm still part of the group, albeit intermittently as it's now the same night as my choir. I try and read the monthly book as it broadens my reading as it's often something I'd never choose for myself. I've read some brilliant books and some I wish I'd never started. I'm currently half through one that I really wanted to read as I'm determined to go to the discussion this month. However, it is relentlessly depressing and I just don't think I can face anymore. The crunch came when last night I got scared of today's impending cycle ride in case I die on it and never see my children again. I don't want to be reading books that limit my life and make me fearful. I like to be inspired by books, people, films and music that encourage me to love and live and laugh and be filled with hope and stretch my potential. I really don't need to be dragged down by fiction full of horror and despair if there is nothing I can do about it.
Today has dawned sunny and not a sniff of a breeze, so the bike ride over to my boyfriend's is on. I am treating it as an adventure - there is no time at which I have to arrive so I can enjoy the flowers on the way, stop for a picnic if I need. But I'm not taking the book with me.
It was fantastic!!
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