Year-end Reflections — Books
Lost in the Noise: The Disappearing Libraries in Our Modern Landscape
We have far too few old and new libraries compared to the abundance of mobile/gadget repair shops, health care centers, beauty salons, and food outlets.
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Why Reading Matters — TED Talks
Speaking is innate to us, woven into our genes, but reading is not. In fact, until about a century ago, the majority of people didn’t read at all. Engaging with fiction, in particular, helps forge new neural pathways in our brains. Reading just 30 pages of fiction each night makes these pathways stronger and more defined. Much like our bodies, our brains thrive on regular exercise.
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Amor Towles, Author
One of the authors I discovered in 2024 was Amor Towles, and I was absolutely delighted by his A Gentleman in Moscow. It quickly became one of my favorite reads of the year.
Recently, I picked up Table for Two (on Kindle) for some year-end fiction reading. It wasn’t until I finished the first section that I realized it was a collection of short stories — not the full-length novel I had been looking forward to! Lesson learned: I’ll check more carefully next time. 😊
Recently, I picked up Table for Two (on Kindle) for some year-end fiction reading. It wasn’t until I finished the first section that I realized it’s a collection of short stories — not the full-length novel I had been looking forward to! Lesson learned: I’ll check more carefully next time. 😊
That said, I decided to give the stories a chance, and I’m glad I did. The book is a wonderful read, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.
One quote from the chapter Hasta Luego truly stood out to me. While the author refers to a wife supporting her husband, I believe it speaks to the essence of every meaningful relationship: the importance of standing up in an empowering way — with unconditional positive regard, spiritual love, or just simple love — for the people around you. At work, in life, and everywhere.
Let us stand up for others in 2025. In the spirit of One World, One Family. Or, Vasudaivam Kutumbakam. That is true spiritual love. #IQ2EQ2SQ
As Sri Ramana said, “there are no others!”
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Best wishes for a great year ahead, and beyond!
