Books are amazing. They have a way of sinking deep into our souls like nothing else. They allow us to reflect, experience deep emotion, lose ourselves, and reclaim ourselves all at the same time. Books made into movies do a severe disservice to the original content and message of the original work (although I totally get why they do it).
Over the past five years I have read over a hundred books (some were better than others). Below are the top five non-religious books that have most impacted my perspective, character, and desire for progress.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: I have read this book three times. Each time I read it I am reminded of how these principles have made me a better person and how much I still have to learn. I highly recommend this book for those who are struggling in their relationships, career, and personal happiness. This book has helped me with all three.
The 5000 Year Leap: Our freedom is based on the individual citizen understanding the principles of the constitution. If we cannot identify when the American eagle is swaying too far to the right or too far to the left then we will not have the power to prevent tyranny or anarchy. This book provides a clear and simple explanation of the constitution. It should be taught in every high school in America.
Les Miserables: I learned about the depth and variety of the human character. It helped me to define greatness. It is a long book but so good for the soul! It will make you cry, give you chills, and instill courage to make the changes necessary for growth and progress. The book is ten times better than the movie or musical.
Unbroken: This story is absolutely unbelievable. I just could not believe that all these events could happen to one man. If this were a fictional story I could confidently say that “This could never have happened in real life”. The power of the human will to survive and thrive under all circumstances is truly inspiring and miraculous. Again, unfortunately, the movie did not come close to the incredibleness of the book.
The Walking Drum: For me, the book was reminiscent of other stories that have inspired me toward greatness (Braveheart, Cinderella Story, Gladiator, etc.). It is one person’s story of how they overcame defeating odds to achieve greatness in ways they did not expect (or, in some cases, necessarily want). The book teaches several life lessons that deserve much reflection. The symbolic nature of the drum beat, for me, is all about the purpose we strive to accomplish in life. The drum’s cadence is the external and/or internal motivation that pushes us towards the realization of our goals. Without such motivation the accomplishment of our goals is greatly delayed, if realized at all. This book is great for those looking for adventure and courage to do great things.
If you were to make your own list of top five books what would those be? Why did you pick those books? In what are you currently immersing yourself? Continue to allow books to season your life and experience more of what life has to offer. It just makes life that much better!
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