Reading: The Abundance of Silence

 　　People who enjoy reading are often quiet, or rather, possess a capacity for quietude. Especially those who become deeply absorbed in reading, like an old monk in meditation, may appear at first glance like a dazed child, seemingly oblivious to the passage of time, inevitably earning them the nickname "bookworm." Those who laugh may not realize that at that quiet desk, the "bookworm's" seemingly lost soul is joyfully wandering in the world of books, oblivious to the world around them. The piercing pain and exhilarating joy they experience are created by the rich realm of the silent book in their hands, making it hard to let go—this is the unique charm of reading!

　　In an era where everyone asks "What is the use?" before doing anything else, reading is inevitably questioned as well. The ancients said, "In books, there are houses of gold; in books, there are beauties like jade." In ancient times, impoverished scholars could change their fate and realize their ambitions through reading and taking the imperial examinations. Today, however, there are many paths to success besides reading and exams; therefore, the purpose and meaning of reading are particularly worthy of exploration. I believe that the "golden house" and "jade-like beauty" mentioned in the book don't necessarily represent the success and fame of wealth and beauty. They likely refer to the spiritual richness and aesthetic appreciation gained through reading. The so-called "changing one's life" isn't just about getting promoted, making money, and winning the heart of a beautiful woman; it also includes the enlightenment and transformation of one's inner world. As many have said, "Reading ten thousand books is not as good as traveling ten thousand miles." This saying can only be based on having already read ten thousand books. Otherwise, traveling ten thousand miles with an empty mind cannot provide the experience of "traveling ten thousand miles" after reading ten thousand books, when the mind is filled with the experience of many excellent predecessors and has undergone self-reflection. It's a comparison, a verification, and a unique process of self-discovery. Only in this way does "traveling ten thousand miles" have meaning.

　　Therefore, the true benefit of reading lies in self-cultivation and nurturing the mind; it can nourish the body, improve appearance, enrich the soul, and even benefit one's children. The higher the quality and the greater the volume of reading, the broader one's mind becomes. A person with a clear and open mind is rarely short-lived; hence, it is said that reading can nourish life. The ancient saying, "A belly full of poetry and books naturally brings elegance," is a timeless truth. A relaxed mind brings refined temperament and a radiant appearance; hence, it is said that reading can nourish the complexion. Reading good books allows one's heart to grow strong roots. With a solid foundation, nourishment can be provided, allowing the branches of the spirit to grow strong and healthy, preventing them from being blown away by the "winds of the world." This allows one to become a calm, disciplined person, free from the pursuit of extreme material desires; hence, it is said that reading can enrich the soul. With hundreds and thousands of books published daily, only discerning readers can identify true gems. Children today have limited time for extracurricular reading; only parents who truly understand reading can guide their children, selecting beneficial reading materials and laying a solid foundation for their future reading habits and tastes. Hence, it is said that reading can benefit children.

　　The benefits of reading are numerous, but the true core lies in defining what constitutes a good reader. As the saying goes, "The sea of ​​books is boundless, but life is finite." Only those who understand how to read classics can be considered good readers. Regarding classics, let's quote Italian writer Italo Calvino: "If you haven't questioned the meaning of life, the themes of life and death, love and loneliness, and haven't developed this sense of immersion, you may not be able to read or truly engage with these classic works." Paying attention to one's own spiritual life is essential to resonating with the masters. When a book opens a door to the unknown, your soul is awakened by the warmth and moisture of early spring, sprouting and growing. You suddenly discover things that already existed within you, things you had never noticed before. Congratulations, this means you have read a meaningful classic.

　　A person's reading history is their spiritual development history; spiritual nourishment determines the height and intensity of one's spiritual growth. What a joyful moment it is when I quietly hold a book, its pages fragrant with ink, and find the room filled with teachers, close friends, and confidants! Yes, reading is indeed a mysterious experience, uniting external tranquility and clarity with inner richness and abundance. It cultivates countless delicate and sensitive antennae within us, allowing us to subtly perceive the vibrant and beautiful world of books in the silent and colorless.

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