I remember pulling a laminated pass off the hook by my sixth grade classroom door, entering the creaky wooden hallway, then turning up the ramp leading to the elementary library. I walked across the short brown carpet to the corner in the library where a book tower stood. This was the “big kid books” display. It was the elementary library, but the corner display contained some more intensely-themed content: books by Michael Crichton, Gordon Kormon, Judy Blume, and the like.
Slowly I turned the squeaky display, weighing my options. Feelings of comfort, excitement and anticipation flooded me. I pictured myself reading one of these new books – in the back of our gray family minivan, as Dad drove us to our grandparents’, in my bed before lights out. I didn’t understand where those feelings came from, but I knew there was something special about books. Today I still experience those feelings when preparing to read a new book. Not until recently – through the process of writing and reflecting on my own book – have I been able to pinpoint from where these feelings stem.
I thought a lot about why I enjoy reading so much. What do I enjoy specifically about engaging in new stories? I like feeling like I get to take a break from my (limited) world and worldview and get a chance to engage with someone else and his or her unique story. The reader/author relationship is special. It allows opportunities for people to connect who likely would not have connected otherwise (maybe they live in different towns, or states, or their paths just would not have crossed otherwise).
There is a vulnerable and intimate connection created and space shared within the author/reader relationship. What a vulnerable space, as a storyteller, to share one’s story with a reader; and what a privilege, as a reader, to be trusted with someone’s story. We humans are created to be in relationship with one another, and the author/reader connection allows for an opportunity where we can enter into intentional relationship. A relationship where we might be encouraged, challenged, or simply enjoy each other’s company.
We must create space for each other to share our stories. This doesn’t mean you have to write a book, or even read a book. Just find a way to share. And during times when it is difficult to connect with people, we need to be creative. Maybe we can share stories over a phone call, or a Zoom call, or even a good old-fashioned letter. We are created for relationship, after all. When we share stories, and when our stories are heard, we are connected. So be creative, and find ways to connect!
