I, like so many others, want to read more. I know the value of reading, and the passing on of wisdom, insight, and knowledge. Immersing yourself in a story and losing track of time. I don’t think anybody would argue that reading is a waste of time or has no value. The problem is, where will you find the time? You have a full-time job, the kids need your full-time attention, and Facebook would cease to be if it weren’t for you.
Well, the solution I have found is listening to audiobooks. I know it’s not reading, but let’s face it, I’m 44 years old now, and if I haven’t made it a discipline to read by now, it’s probably not going to happen. At least with audiobooks, I’m getting the benefit of what the author is trying to say to me.
This is the primary way I read my Bible, and I also get to read many more non-fiction books than I would ever be able to get through by turning pages. Books like Wild at Heart by John Eldredge, How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, or even World War Z by Max Brooks.
I am writing this post from our small public library where we have an entire wall of great fiction and non-fiction books just waiting to be uploaded directly to my brain via my iPod. The great thing about the library is that they probably have a physical copy of the book that you can read along with. A great way to get into the habit of actually reading a book.
So, the next time someone tells you they don’t have the time or the focus to read, turn them on to audiobooks (and my blog).