Reader question #17: Why I prefer food for thought

Every month, I publish an answer to a reader’s question. Here’s a transcript of my answer to a reader’s question about my decision to provide readers food for thought.

I love reading your answers to readers’ questions, book reviews, the weekly newsletter, and more of the things you write. What is the one thing you want readers to take away from your writings?

I like to think of myself as a curious person. I always felt more comfortable asking questions. I like how kids often ask questions and are not in any way concerned about whether their questions could be perceived as inappropriate. I don’t look at myself as someone who has all the answers, and neither do I feel the need to simplify reality to what’s right and what’s wrong. I’ve found that sharing stories with others and questioning ourselves and the world around us often leads to more interesting conversations. It shifts the focus from asking to agree or disagree with someone, to ask them to learn something new.

So yes, you won’t find presecriptions on this blog or in my newsletter. It’s more interesting and fulfilling to me to provide people food for thought. I’m meant to do it this way, as it’s close to how I move through the world.

If there is one wish I have to leave readers with, it’s that I hope this blog will serve its readers as a catalyst for conversation.

Thank you for reading. This reader’s question is part of the Ask Me Anything series. Feedback from you, the reader, is important to me. Want to ask me a question for next month? Send me your question via [email protected]

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