Sailouh- The Power of Words

Sailouh: children, kids. 

Sailouh meant “little boy” in ancient ChinaKing Mouh, the first ruler of the Chou dynasty, introduced his younger brother as sailouh.  (The term subtly shifts to “sailou” when describing one’s own younger brother.) Triad gangs use these family terms, with the leader addressed as “Daaihlou” (elder brother) and the man under him known as “Sailou.”  Thus, one simple phrase can yield various meanings. 

It is the power of words that first lured me into reading as a child.  It continues to show up every time I move to a new place.  Upon relocation, my first goal involves finding the local library and getting a card.  Books offer a means of escape.  In my case, I could vicariously experience different worlds.   

Finding new places through literature.

For Paula McLain, author of The Paris Wife, words created safety.  In her memoir, she writes that the school library served as a safe haven during her tumultuous time in the foster care system.  Sometimes a book offers literal escape through its information, as evidenced by William Hickman.  The 13-year-old, found clinging to a ledge mere feet away from a huge waterfall, survived by following advice from a fictional character. 

Don’t ever underestimate the power of books (or e-books).

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Comments

  1. Books are my first true love. I remember reading from a very young age and one of the first that I read was The Wizard of Oz, still one of my favorite books. The power of words should never be underestimated. Good post!

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