The Maze Runner

A couple of weeks ago I finished 'The Maze Runner' series by James Dashner. The reason it has taken me so long to write this recommendation post is because I debated whether or not to recommend it. I actually couldn't figure out if I like the series or not. Although it kept me up nights with its page turning excitement, each time I finished a book the haunting question of "did I like that?" loomed over me. This question thus far has proven unanswerable, something that is quite baffling to me. It is with this struggle that I have decided to recommend it. If a book can cause me to puzzle over it for such a long time, actually make me stop and think about it and its complexities, than it must be worthy of reading. I would be lying if I didn't say that the book was almost scarring to me. Yes, it has it's entertainment factor, but the fear that this might actually happen to our world some day hovers over me leaving a lasting impression. So my friends, I would definitely recommend this book so that you can judge for yourselves.

“Such a display of death - how could it be considered a victory?” 
-James Dashner-

Desiderata

Desiderata 

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.

Take kindly to the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann c.1920

Through the Pensieve

Character Love

To Kill A Mockingbird

I just finished the book "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee for the third time in my life, and I'm telling you, this book never gets old! It is one of the great American classics that everyone needs to experience at least once. Scout is growing up in the South when racial tensions are high and her father is assigned to be the lawyer defending a black man who is accused of raping a white girl. Although this book suggests a serious plot Harper Lee tales the story from a witty and sometimes even comical tone of voice. You can't help but love Scout with all of her crazy antics. This is a page turner and amazing writing. If you haven't read it then I highly recommend doing so at least once in your lifetime. Or at least watch the movie anyway.

A Good Book Teaches...

A truly good book teaches me better than to read it. I must soon lay it down, and commence living on its hint. What I began by reading, I must finish by acting.
Henry David Thoreau

Funny

English Hard!

Live More Than One Life

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games series, by Suzanne Collins, has become a national phenomenon.  And like all phenomenons, there is bound to be some controversy. In case you don't know anything about this series, it is about a futuristic country that includes the capitol and thirteen districts. There was a time when the districts rebelled against the capitol and to prove their power the capitol initiated something known as The Hunger Games. The Hunger Games requires two children, a boy and a girl, from each district to be put in an arena and fight to the death. The last child standing wins fame, fortune, and best yet- extra food for their district for that year.  One guess what the controversy is over... You got it. The kids killing kids part. And of course that is absolutely awful! But to me, that is kind of the point. It should shock you. It should make you stop and think. It should make you question your government instead of following along like a mindless robot. And I think the biggest lesson of all, is that kids should NOT hurt one another. It has been said that these books model our society- and I must admit, I agree. How many violent games are there? How many gangs involve too many kids? And remember how we are in the middle of a national bullying crisis? Violence has become socially acceptable in our society and I feel like these books kind of draw us out on that. These books teach, inspire, make you laugh, make you cry, and make you skip meals because you literally cannot put them down. Suzanne Collins is an amazing author and she deserves credit where credit is due. The movie is indeed incredible, but nothing beats the books. So read it and decide for yourself. And I would love to hear your opinion on this series!

“Deep in the meadow, hidden far away
A cloak of leaves, a moonbeam ray
Forget your woes and let your troubles lay
And when it's morning again, they'll wash away
Here it's safe, here it's warm
Here the daisies guard you from every harm
Here your dreams are sweet and tomorrow brings them true
Here is the place where I love you.”