Dear Reader Column 09-19-08

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Dear Reader,

When did I finally decide to appreciate my own talents?

I was thinking about that question the other day after I finished watching two violin players perform on television. Their performance was beyond entertaining, it was inspiring. As I sat in awe of their talent, I was smiling and thinking to myself, 'Suzanne, you should go and do something great.'

I didn't use to think like that. Used to be, when I experienced a stellar performance, compelling writing, a woman wearing the dress of a lifetime, or the best-of-the-best on "Jeopardy" I wasn't inspired; instead I took a personal inventory. And of course I didn't measure up. Wasn't good enough, talented, smart enough or tall enough--nothing could outshine what I'd just experienced. I didn't feel inspired, I felt defeated. Why even try?

But thankfully somewhere along the way I realized that it's not a competition, I don't have to outshine. Sharing my talents, giving the best I have to give, is all that's required of me.

Thanks for reading with me. It's so good to read with friends.

Suzanne Beecher
mailto:Suzanne@DearReader.com 
http://www.DearReader.com

P.S. Sample this week's alternate book, and enter the drawing to win a free copy. Go to:
http://www.supportlibrary.com/bc/v.cfm?L=%%list.name%%&V=B1AF54AFA74E&c=SUZ (This is another new format. If you tried it earlier in the week, please try it again, and let us know if you have any problems, I appreciate the feedback.)

READ THE CLASSICS: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey and enter the free Penguin Classic's Drawing. Go to: http://tinyurl.com/65j7z7

Comments

[Mary]

Thanks, for the recommendations, Suzanne.

I got an email this morning from PBS Advisory Panel
asking as part of a survey, what I would consider my favorite fiction book of all time.
(How are you supposed to decide!?)
I settled on 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' because it is one I do love!
What would you have picked?

[suzanne beecher]

I wouldn't ever be able to consider one fiction book my favorite, because my "favorite" changes depending on what's going on in my life. I read for what I need. Suzanne