Something magical happens when one reads aloud a story to another. That magic, in great measure, is ignited in that special moment in time when another person's voice enters the listener's perception. It is intimate and personal, a collaboration if you will. This story is being shared only with the other. It is an analogy to the workings of compassion and an act of compassion. It can be a vital part of the healing process and even life-sustaining. The human voice reading a story can transport the listener from a stark reality to another world. It can trigger the relaxation response effecting improved physiological states, thus lessening the experience of pain and even fostering sleep.
And then there is the story itself that has the power to lift both the listener and the reader out of their present worlds into another-together. The reader's tone, inflections, and pacing add to the experience. Imagination is stirred; curiosity arises. And then there is the marvelous experience of contentment. That emotional state of being at ease in our situation, body and mind. We witness the magic of contentment when reading to a child. Is it not as important for adults? And if this is possible through reading to another, then it must be repeated-and often. The act of reading to another becomes an antidote to loneliness and sorrow.
Imagine the myriad of ways that a relative, a friend, or a caretaker might use this enjoyable experience for those who need it the most. Perhaps a loved one is a continent away or in isolation nearby. How fine it would be if the two could transcend their immediate worries and anxiety and lift off to another world together. Can we not imagine the gift this would be? In any of these circumstances, the reader and the listener can choose the short story together. The possibilities are endless. This is a modality that clinicians could recommend to patients and families during hospitalization. And the gift of moments of contentment could become an integral part of their healing.
ADDENDUM
Stories are the life blood of all cultures throughout the world. Folklore, myths and legends from the ancient and medieval world, short stories, novels, plays, and poems abound. Might you the reader and your colleagues collaborate with me to create a reading list derived from your culture? In your own language and if translated as well. Please note that large-print stories are most welcome. Short works are preferable, but novels and plays can be read as in a series. A comprehensive list of literary works is of great importance to this endeavor.
A note of caution to those who become readers to another: be sure to read from a printed copy of the work and not from the web or tablet. Reading from a backlit device might interfere with your sleep.