Thankful for books

I'm feeling in a bit of a reflective mood right now.  On Facebook recently there was a list of 100 classics and other top books circulating, with the idea that you were supposed to identify how many you had read.  I'd read a mere 27 of them — more than some of my friends, less than others.

I can't help but think that one of the things I am most thankful for is having been born who I am — and where I am.  I've always been an avid reader, since I was a little kid — I always had my nose stuck in a book, including with a flashlight under the covers after lights out, and in school (much to my teachers' consternation — how do you tell one child to stop reading and pay attention, when you are trying to teach all the rest to read more?).

Moreover, I live in a country where literacy is valued and education is provided (at least, basic education is).  Not only am I allowed to read anything I want, I also have many opportunities to, whether it is because of the convenience of electronic devices and ebooks, or the budget-friendly library.  (I save a lot of money thanks to my library!)

Finally, I have a lifestyle that allows me to stay up until 2 or 3 in the morning reading if I have my hands on a really good books, or take a break to finish a really compelling novel in the afternoon.  I take full advantage of it, too, even if sometimes that means I have to work evenings and weekends to make up for it!

Call me a geek if you will, but I am thankful for having books in my life!

Happy Thanksgiving!