Today, I’m here to tell you that these past weeks I’ve been reading a lot. And writing, too. As I had already anticipated before arriving on this island, there are always plans if you look for them. Even here, though it's smaller than Mallorca.
Among these plans, I ended up attending some theatrical readings at the municipal library. Have I mentioned before how much I love libraries? Well, besides free books, in Mahón many days they host really interesting activities. One thing led to another, and I ended up signing up for a a writing course. In this post, I’m sharing the two pieces of advice that have made the biggest impact on me these past few weeks and my book recommendations for the month.
For me, writing is a way to understand myself, and also to understand and cope with the world, to find that thing that shines and burns inside every person.
ANA HARO
Listening (to myself)
I want to use this post to encourage you to embark on that adventure that’s been circling around in your mindfor a while. . The best moments we live come when we let ourselves follow that inner voice that says, "This is it” That’s how it’s always been for me with writing. Since I was little, when I wrote, I felt like I was in what they call “the zone". That spacewhere time flies by and you find yourself enjoying the moment without thinking of anything else. Shhh. Silence. Stop checking your phone, jumping from video to video, or watching TV. Listen to yourselfWhat is your deepest self telling you?
And another piece of advice that I’ve been applying to myself these past few weeks listen more to others. Don’t assume you know what they’re going to say. Listen to them, truly, with all your attention. And intention. There’s nothing better than observing or listening closely for something to become interesting.
What to read - June
No matter what your “zone” is, reading will open doors to an endless variety of colors, smells, and textures. It’s like tasting a new dish. Through reading, you can live many lives. It will help you learn more about yourself and about others. This month, I recommend looking for the following books at your local library or bookstore:
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Stieg Larsson. I know. Clara, wake up. It’s from 2005. There’s a reason. I bought it at the book fair, at a second-hand book stall. All three books of the trilogy for €5. It was on my to-read list, and now I understand why it captivated over 100 million readers worldwide. If you haven’t read it yet, like me, don’t hesitate.
- The Wealth That Money Can’t Buy – Robin Sharma. I love this guy. His newsletter feels a bit too much for me, though. It gives me the feeling he’s trying to sell something every day. But his books, I can say, have changed my life. This blog, for example, was born from one of his books. His latest one, full of advice and habits for different areas of life, is a must-read. For me, it’s best to read no more than three chapters a day.
- Ten Instructions on the Theory of Gravity – Leila Guerreiro. This was a gift from our writing workshop teacher, Ana. This Argentinian journalist and her “instructions” inspired me a lot. I hope they inspire you too. And make you reflect. On life. On love.
So whether with physical books or in digital format, borrowed from the library or bought, start your next book today.. I've never regretted investing time in reading a book. I also don't hesitate to put a book aside if it doesn't convince me. Anyway, read. I'm sure it helps us grow and not stagnateAnd if you have any favorites that I haven’t mentioned in my posts, send me your recommendation. There’s always room on my nightstand for another book waiting to be read.
Say goodbye at an airport. Then walk towards the exit without turning around. Ask yourself if she turned back. Turn around. See how she’s already gone.
LEILA GUERREIRO
See you soon and happy reading!
Yo estoy leyendo Yo, Julia de Santiago posteguillo y aunque es largo y un poco lento con las guerras, me está gustando.
¡Ay, Adela! Ahora veo tu comentario. ¡Me lo apunto! Muchas gracias 🙂 Yo ahora estoy con «Cuando la tormenta pase» de Manuel Loureiro. ¡¡Te lo recomiendo!!