The Forgotten Key to Individual Growth

In the forum this past week, Dr. Douglas S. Winnail addressed the importance of reading. He mentioned that if we want to grow and become more well-rounded individuals, we need to understand and utilize this vital tool. He mentioned that while at Living Education, we may not have the time to put his advice into full effect. However, he hoped the knowledge shared with us would create long term benefits for every student.

Dr. Winnail dove into his speech by discussing the drastic decline in the number of people who frequently read. Statistics reveal that between 1992 and 2002, there was a decrease of 17 million people reading books. To put this into perspective, over 25% of American adults do not read a single book throughout the year! However, in an age of YouTube videos and social media some might feel that it’s no big deal if we aren’t reading anymore. 

Why reading matters 

Yet, reading acts the same for our brain as exercise does for our bodies, and there are consequences when we do not stimulate our minds. Dr. Winnail cited one study that found a noticeable drop in communication skills from kids that are on screens, compared to those who were taught the joys of reading. He said that while he was serving as a pastor in England, he did a lot of reading about the European Union. However, the vocabulary and terminology that was used often required a dictionary to look up some of the words, therefore increasing his vocabulary over time. In addition, reading can promote time for reflection. When we read, our mind uses beta wave lengths that stimulate our thinking, compared to the alpha wavelengths that are generated when watching television. And just like our physical bodies, we must do things that keep the mind healthy. 

Requirements for deep reading 

Dr. Winnail next mentioned three guidelines to properly and deeply read. 

1. Sit Still 
2. Take Time 
3. Concentrate 

Concentration can greatly aid in our understanding of the story flow and evaluate arguments which a book may pose, and it also makes the reading process that much more enjoyable. 

How does reading relate to you and me? 

Dr. Winnail explained that Christianity is not only a historical religion, but also a literary religion. He explained how Harvard was established 16 years after the pilgrims on the Mayflower landed at Plymouth, for the explicit purpose of providing an educated ministry for this new land. This shows that even in the early years of our country, people recognized the importance of preparing educated leaders.

In addition to increasing our physical knowledge, and understanding, the Bible stresses the importance of books. Deuteronomy 31:26 says, “Take this book of the Law, and put it beside the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, that it may be there as a witness against you.” The Scriptures reveal that God has used educated individuals to fulfill His Purpose. We are told that Moses was “learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians” (Acts 7:22) and that Daniel and his friends were schooled for three years in the language and books of the Chaldeans (Daniel 1:3-4). Solomon was filled with wisdom and spoke of trees, birds, animals and many other things and that many came to hear his wisdom (1 Kings 4:31-34). How did Solomon acquire such broad knowledge without using this wonderful tool of reading? 

Beyond ourselves 

In addition to striving to become more educated as individuals, we have the responsibility to help children learn to appreciate reading. As Dr. Winnail put it, “Children are made readers in the laps of their parents.” It is critical for the art of reading to be passed on, and this can be achieved by making reading enjoyable for them. Dr. Winnail discussed how when his grandchildren were little, he would read them their favorite books. Often, he would have fun with them by leaving parts out and waiting for their response to his changing the story. Passing on the skill of reading and the joy of reading is the duty of any loving parent or grandparent. 

Closing 

Dr. Winnail concluded the forum by sharing a handout with quotes from famous individuals and their views on reading, along with a list of recommended books. One quote that stood out from Mark Twain was, “The man that does not read good books has no advantage over a man that cannot read.” This focused our minds on the importance that reading holds. If we do not put reading into practice by reading beneficial books, then are we really any better off than a person who never learned to read? 

While we are currently busy with our designated readings, classwork, and activities, all of us are enthusiastic to begin putting the principles of reading into more diligent action. When we realize the importance that reading can have on our mental as well as physical health, we can look forward to exercising our minds!