From the outside my existence is boring. I stay inside all day. I don’t go out unless I have to because I’ve been bullied even as an adult for what I look like, so I just never go out to avoid people potentially judging me. I recently moved across the world and aside from my wife who works alot, I have no friends or family. I’m pretty much alone in the universe, tucked away in my corner.
I realized that’s why I read. Even if I wanted to, I couldn’t go out and join a club or volunteer because of the language barrier. And I don’t have a passion that pulls me in like baking, gaming, or playing piano. So if I’m not studying or sitting here letting my mind run wild, I read. It’s like I get to be an observer in other peoples adventures and be entertained while the time passes.
What about you? Why do you read?
I grew up in a small community. Most of us “readers” definitely used reading to escape that existence. I found that reading sometimes prompts me into further interests. Is there a library near you where you could start a reading group to discuss the books you enjoy? You mention a language barrier, so that may be challenging. But you might be able to advertise it as giving other people a chance to speak your language. In fact, I wonder if there are groups, companies, or organizations near you who could use a native English speaker as a resource for their members to practice speaking with.