Reading for Transformation, Not Just Information
How reading differently will improve your spiritual journey
I enjoy reading, but I also love finishing a book and starting a new one. Each book holds the excitement of new ideas and engaging stories. I tend to read as quickly as possible, highlighting helpful information and moving on. There is nothing wrong with this approach, but I quickly forget what I read.
There is a type of reading that informs the intellect as it shapes the heart. It requires the recovery of skills that are out of fashion: leisurely, meditative, prayerful, and repetitive reading. It is a lot like sitting down to a five-course dinner as opposed to going through a drive-thru.
As we engage in this reading, we bring our mind and spirit in connection with the Divine Presence to take a step further into self-awareness and understanding.
Reading for information and transformation both serve a purpose. One is not better than the other, as each has a place in our journey. The differences include:
Reading for Information
- Cover large amounts of information as fast as possible
- The book is like a casual acquaintance
- The reader masters the text
- The text is the object controlled by the reader’s purposes
- An analytical, critical, judgmental approach
- Problem-solving mentality
Reading for Transformation
- Leisurely and meditative pace
- The book is like a good friend
- Allows the text to master the reader
- The reader is the object addressed by the text
- A humble, loving, accepting approach
- Openness to mystery
When reading for transformation, we allow the author to speak as a close friend and allow the Spirit to direct our attention. We force ourselves to slow down and listen to what is stirring within us, noticing how the text resonates with our spirit.
As you are reading, if something stands out to you, take the time to sit with it for a moment. Why does it strike you? What are you feeling? Is there something you should explore further? Is there something the Divine would have you hear or see about yourself?
The goal is not to discover facts or fill our heads with information. We are not looking for the correct answers. We are pursuing life change. Reading for transformation is the journey to create space for the Divine to illuminate our spirit, a way of self-care and nurturing our soul.
When you connect with a book or passage at a deep level, consider rereading it, and journaling your insights, and rewriting meaningful passages in your own words.
I find it helpful to pause and sit with a sentence, paragraph, or section that sparks my interest. As I listen, I meditate on questions to discern what the Divine may have for me.
- Why does this capture my attention?
- Spirit, what are you stirring in me?
- How does this resonate with my spirit?
- What does this reveal about myself, others, or the world?
- Why is this important to me?
- Does this require a response from me in thought, attitude, or action?
As you engage in the journey, may you experience great joy and transformation in your life!
