2. The Written Word

I love to read. I like to read fast-paced exciting books with lots of plot twists and surprises. I like to read children's books full of fantasy and make-believe. I like Jane Austen's books and the like. I like Russian literature (translated into English, of course.) I like reading light-hearted books that make me laugh. I like reading complex books that make me think, question, and doubt. I like reading books that bring me closer to my Savior, that help me know how I can become the greatest possible me. I like reading the newspaper in the morning, knowing what's going on in the world around me (I miss getting the paper, but it just isn't practical) I like reading letters from friends and family. I like reading the journals of my ancestors, the memoirs of my grandparents, the recollections of long ago.
In 1447, Johann Gutenberg invented the printing press, a machine that would change the world forever. He created a means for people to share information more effectively and easily. I am profoundly grateful for his creativity and contribution to the world.
My grandfather was a printer and lithographer by trade. Books were his life. Learning was a constant and life-long process. Education didn't stop when he graduated from college (BYU, yay!) in 1938. He passed his love of learning, reading, and books to his children.
My father reads more than just about anyone I know. He is always reading articles to keep up with current developments in his field. He reads to answer questions. If he wants something done he will go to the library to get a book about how to do it, read the book, and follow its instructions.
The house I grew up in had more bookcases than I can count. I know there were at least two in every bedroom, a few large ones in the living room, more in the garage, a small one in the kitchen, and walls covered in books in the family room. There was never a shortage of reading material in our home.
Here at school I have far too many books. I recently moved and had 6 moving boxes (smallish ones) full of books. Two of the boxes are going to my parents' house next month, but that still leaves a lot here in my small room. I don't think I have gone a day without reading something since I was three years old.
The written word is a powerful thing. It can influence many people, express many ideas and emotions, and can be used for both good and bad. It is a shame people don't read as much as they used to. I find reading to be relaxing, intellectually stimulating, and entertaining all at the same time. Books are good. Kids should be taught to value and like them, to go to them for entertainment and inspiration, answers and peace. Reading a computer screen just isn't the same.