The Power of Reading and Leaving a Lasting Legacy

The Power of Reading and Leaving a Lasting Legacy

"Reading". Whether it’s news, tweets, books, or any other form of written word, reading remains the most efficient way of consuming and capturing information. And information is the most valuable asset in the world.

In today's digital age, reading has become more accessible than ever before. With the rise of e-readers and smartphones, we can carry an entire library in our pockets and read anytime, anywhere. Personally, I find myself reading on various devices throughout the day. In the morning and evenings at home, I tend to read on my iPad Air, while in the afternoon, I read on my iPhone. And at night, I switch to my Kindle. It may seem excessive, but reading plays a significant role in my life, both personally and professionally.

But why do we read? What drives us to immerse ourselves in the written word? Kazuki Nakayashiki, in his profound note titled "人はなぜ生きるのか？（遺物論編）", suggests that one of the greatest reasons for human existence is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideas for future generations. He believes that everything we do is ultimately a manifestation of our thoughts and actions. Without a strong sense of purpose and goals, our thoughts and actions would lack direction.

Reading opens our minds to new ideas and perspectives. It allows us to identify problems and areas for improvement. It is through knowledge acquisition that we develop the will and goals to shape the world around us. Nakayashiki emphasizes that while fools may solely rely on their own experiences, wise individuals learn from the experiences of others, including history. It is not a matter of believing in gods, heavens, or paths, but rather maintaining a sound conscience through ideas, beliefs, and faith. Truly believing in something will inevitably be reflected in our actions.

If the purpose of human existence is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideas, then it is essential to hold onto these ideas in any situation. We must foster knowledge with love, tackle the challenges of the world head-on, and strive to find meaningful solutions. This requires a genuine and unwavering effort to preserve our beliefs and confront the issues that face society.

So, how can we make the most of reading and leave a lasting legacy? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Read widely and diversely: Expand your horizons by exploring various genres, topics, and perspectives. This broadens your understanding of the world and allows you to form well-rounded opinions and ideas.

2. Engage in thoughtful discussions: Reading alone is not enough. Engaging in meaningful conversations with others helps refine your thoughts and exposes you to different viewpoints. It is through these interactions that your ideas can be tested, strengthened, or even transformed.

3. Write and share your thoughts: Reading is only one side of the coin; writing allows you to articulate your ideas and share them with others. By creating written works, you contribute to the collective knowledge of humanity and leave behind a tangible legacy.

In conclusion, reading is a powerful tool that allows us to consume and capture information efficiently. It opens our minds, shapes our beliefs, and enables us to leave a lasting legacy of sound ideas for future generations. By reading widely, engaging in thoughtful discussions, and actively sharing our thoughts through writing, we can make the most of this incredible gift and contribute to the betterment of society.

So, pick up a book, dive into the digital world, and embark on a journey of knowledge and self-discovery. The power of reading is within your grasp.