When I was a little girl I used books as a way to escape my reality of living in my boring little town in south Texas. To this day nothing excites me more than turning pages in a book; new or old. I have read series from Uglies by Scott Westerfeld, Harry Potter, and Immortal Instruments. I have also read the Bible which is significantly harder to comprehend than most books. My most recent interest is self-help books since I have decided to go back to college for psychology after a thirteen year hiatus. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins has been enlightening for me. After thirty plus years of reading I've learned there is a book for everyone. No matter your preference, interests or reading comprehension I can guarantee there is a book for every person! I've also learned that even though I used books as a way to escape real life nothing compares to going out in the world and living your own adventures like those I used to read about in books. Granted I can't wave a wand and make things appear like Hermione in Harry Potter or fight demons like Clary in Immortal Instruments but I can see the beauty in nature and enjoy everyday moments no matter where I am. By reading books and learning about different animals and techniques on how to better myself (I know two very different concepts) I have been able to accomplish some of my life goals. I read about animals I found interesting and as I got older my goals were to have encounters with them and I have. So far I have been in a penguin enclosure and snorkeled with tiger sharks. More recently reading self-help books has guided me to wanting to pursue my bachelor's in psychology. Reading high functioning anxiety by Dr. Lalitaa Suglani was a revelation to me. It opened my eyes at how much my upbringing had shaped me into the person I am today. It also led me to see that my past doesn't dictate my future, I alone have the power to change that. So now I am a year away from achieving my goal of obtaining my bachelor's degree in psychology from Colorado Technical Institute. Without reading books I never would have set these goals or even done any introspection. So one thing I know is certain and will remain the same for years to come; I love reading!