I crept up quietly to the wooden shelves piled high with books. My finger caressed the spines of old, leather classics, smooth, new hardbacks, and dusty paperback books. My finger stopped on Little Women and I eased it out, leaving a hole where the book had once been. Grabbing a pillow and tucking my legs underneath me, I snuggled into the white and green couch. I was quickly whisked away into a lovely tale of sisters who were daring, creative, compassionate, and fiercely loyal. I was so swept away by the tale, that I almost didn’t hear my Nana speaking to me. “That is one of my favorites, ya know?” She smiled, her eyes glistening. I continued reading the book, and I couldn’t help but find each of the March girls resonating with myself or my grandmother in some way. Jo instilled a love and courage for writing. Beth moved me to selfless love and compassion. Amy challenged me to dream of a love of life and people. Meg, affirmed my desire to care for my family. Lastly, Marmee taught me to be strong, supportive, and kind-hearted. The book quickly became one of my favorites as well.
This was just one of many many books Nana Pat encouraged me to read. I often found her reading in her spare moments. These were her stolen moment of joy and adventure. Whether waiting in the car for my brother and I to be dropped off by the school bus, or reading in the mornings before the world woke up, she always looked so peaceful and at home with a book in her hand.
Some of the best gifts I remember receiving from childhood to adulthood, were books that she specifically picked out with me in mind. She loved words and recognized their power. In honor of her today:
I will make the time to stop and read. I will allow the words to speak to my life and settle in. I will allow myself to stop hurrying and just rest. It is no mistake that God communicates to us mainly through written words. There is nothing that challenges the thoughts, inspires the heart, and provides perspective quite like reading. I would love for you to join me in taking the time to read. Below you will find a list of some of my Nana’s favorite books:
- Little Women
- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
- Swiss Family Robinson
- Any book by Karen Kingsbury
- Tuesdays with Morrie
- Where the Lilies Bloom
- The Hiding Place
- Tramp for the Lord
- Jesus is Victor
Smile in a Cup 