Lately, I have been trying to get back into the habit of writing with the sole purpose of regaining my communication skills. Since I had Raphael, most of my conversations involve staggered phrases, made-up words, and a questionable slurry of thoughts. Mid-conversation, I will pause and try to remember what my point was. My pauses in adult conversations are extremely, uncomfortably long. My vocabulary shrank to a quarter.
Part of my efforts include reading books, both fiction and nonfiction. Happy to say that to date, I have read 13 books this year. Unlike previous years, I was not too picky in choosing books this year. I read what was recommended by the library and my in-laws. I have started taking notes from each book I read. And with that exercise, I have come, yet again, to see the powers our words wield.
The Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal, believed that the pen is mightier than the sword. I have read the novels he wrote, and I have never understood his point until now.
This year, the books that I have read made an impact on how I think and act. I have made changes to some of my habits. Some nonfiction books made me cry and prompted me to take a closer look at my past and present. Some books prompted me to grieve and let go of the things I have long held on to. Some books I have found unusual allies in, having known that there are people out there like me – those who never quite fit in.
Words have power – those we let in, and those we push out. I wish to write more. I wish my words be sweet-smelling and comforting for those who will hear or read…
HandsVentures NZ 