Story Time

"If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten." -- Rudyard Kipling

Week 14

In determining the small steps that I want to take, I have so far been focusing on my health.  Remember, I divided that into two parts: mind and body. This week I think I’ll move on to the 'mind' part. 

It’s no surprise to learn that the brain is a muscle and the more you don’t use it, the more you lose it.  There are so many temptations now a days that urge us to just ‘veg’ when it comes to our brain.  How easy is it to mindlessly set in front of the TV for hours on end, watching reality shows and commercials?  It’s how I used to go to bed at night.  I would  turn on the tube, not really caring what I was watching, and quickly dose off.  Even the nightly news would put me into a catatonic state in a matter of minutes.

As I set my goals each year it always seems that one of my ideas has to do with reading more.  And no doubt reading is better for my brain than watching TV.  So, I started a routine of reading every night in bed, rather than watching TV.  I find I sleep better and feel better and it’s sure not as depressing as hearing about the state of the economy or the terrorist latest shenanigans.  

I’ve been thinking a lot lately of my lack of knowledge when it comes to history, and especially American History.  I feel cheated that I had history teachers who seemed more interested in me answering the questions at the back of the book, than in inspiring and motivating me to delve into the past of my forefathers. I rarely remember reading any assigned stories or sagas that were associated with that overpriced, overweight, boring non-fiction text book. I know, I know, you’re no doubt saying “You mean that gal is 60 years old and she’s still blaming her lack of historical knowledge on her high school teachers?”

You’re right….I am responsible for my knowledge, or lack thereof. I need to take charge if I want to learn more about history. My husband Mark is happy to share his non-fiction library with me, but I’d much rather get wrapped up in a love story set in Charleston in 1778, or reading about a dramatic conflict of two brothers in the 1849 California gold rush. 

I have a really helpful book titled ‘What Every American Should Know about American History’.  It’s great because it breaks down events in US History into one or two pages.  So what I can do is read my historical novels, and at the same time read a snippet about the historical event itself.

I still like to read the occasional ‘Take me away’ chic-book, and I’ve always got an eye on the latest best sellers, but I’ve decided that every other book I read this year will be a historical novel and hopefully it will be filled with drama, love stories and adventures.

And if Kipling is right then I should learn some history that I won’t forget.

By the way….I’d love to hear some suggestions about some of your favorite American History Novels.

Small Step:  Read each evening before going to bed

                  Every other book I read will be a historical novel