I always tell myself to keep it to one or two books. It never works. Every shelf seems to offer another subject, another idea, another reason to keep reading.
This time I came home with books about U.S. presidents, pilgrimage, communication, symbolism, happiness and a little more besides.
So once again, the bicycle basket is full.
When the weekend comes, I take my bicycle to the library to fill up my bike basket with books.
Every week, I hop on my bicycle and head to the local library. Sometimes I go with a specific book reservation in mind; at other times, I embark on a curious quest for an undiscovered gem. I must confess that I’m a true bibliophile—an unapologetic sinner in the world of literature. I find it almost impossible to leave with just one book. Instead, I often walk out with an eclectic collection that feeds my insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Currently, my literary haul is a diverse blend, ranging from training and lifestyle guides to healthy cookie recipes. I’ve also dabbled in books about Chinese cuisine and am diving into the captivating world of design movements and iconic designers. This vast spectrum not only enriches my understanding of the world but also amplifies my creative and business acumen. It’s as if each book I pick up serves as another invaluable consultation session, providing insights across various disciplines and industries, as well as lifestyle and living.
In the wake of successfully navigating a complex array of corporate responsibilities - from strategic share issuances and crafting comprehensive annual and quarterly reports to managing mergers and acquisitions and presiding over annual meetings, sourcing growth companies, provide guidance to organizations, provision of corporate information, making businesses through strategic board meetings and so on - I also allocated time to stage this personal event.
In the heart of our beautifully decorated garden, a meaningful celebration was held - an occasion that yielded a rare family photo, one that embodies both joy and accomplishment. This was no ordinary celebration; it was in honour of our son, 'Junior the Second', upon earning his degree.
As the evening host, I delivered the keynote speech honouring the graduating student:
"No day could be more significant than this, a day crafted by Prince Gustav, echoed by the melody beginning with the words: "Let's sing of the student's joyful day". This is the moment your life starts to mould itself, and you will truly grasp the essence of the phrase: "let us revel in the springtime of youth". For only you can join in the chorus: "and the dawning future is ours".
The future belongs to you, with your inherent talent. You possess a unique talent and giftedness that's intrinsic to you, and at times, that's all you need to showcase, akin to Nacka Skoglund at San Siro, known as the "Swaying Corn Cob". Without formal training or tactics, he seized the ball and played by the talent he was blessed with, determining the game's fate with an unexpected dribble or a curled corner kick, unlike anything seen before. You, much like the Nobel laureate Tranströmer, with divine gifts, may conclude that 1 kg weighs no more than 700 grams, and in doing so, become acutely present in the realm of intellectual thought. After all, 1 kg is indeed merely 700 grams.
To arrive at this juncture, this day of student accomplishment, you've demonstrated an unwavering dedication to your studies. Much like Captain Nemo aboard the Nautilus, you've spent hours in your library, even taking your meals there. This has become your signature, a unique opportunity to meld your intellectual pursuits with your everyday routines - a perfect blend of learning and comfort.
But even talent and giftedness, combined with hard work, need cultivation and refinement in knowledge. Now, as you embark on the journey into the real academic world, the upcoming studies will challenge your dynamic abilities and enhance your potential. We then reach, in unison, the end of the Student Song, where your imminent academic journey is heralded in verse: "as we forge alliances in the grove".
To conclude in a manner befitting the Student Song, we impart these words to you on this special day, by exclaiming: "Hurrah!"
