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Not because
of the doors into worlds, not
because you learn about other cultures,
ways of being. Not "escape," not
education, not losing yourself or
improving.
Reading is good because it is
quiet. All day long I am
loud. I explain the
library rules, answer the phone,
am cheerful, enthusiastic, helpful, friendly.
Not because a book makes no demands
and waits for me. Not because
a book never stands me up.
It's because you
can't talk while you're reading.
The sound of pages turning
is a deep soul kiss from the day.
No hurry. No talking.
Just breathe. Swallow. Read.
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