Jack, I feel like I could have written the first part of this story myself, so closely do your experiences match mine.

My family couldn’t understand why I loved to read so much, and I couldn’t understand why they wouldn’t want to marvel in that rich, cinematic, 3D experience.

I found myself a little wistful as I read your story, remembering those days.

I also found myself a little ashamed of myself. Because you know what? I never lost that superpower. I just choose to almost never use it. I’m busy adulting. Being responsible for things. Striving to reach goals. Taking care other people.

The last time I exercised my superpower, it was because a thunderstorm cut our power off.

I opened a novel and found myself transported to 1960s Montreal. I could see, hear, smell, and taste it. Glorious!

Then the power came back on, I got back to work, and I haven’t visited that place again.

I’d like to say that your story inspires me, that I’ll clear some time, pick up a book this afternoon, and go on a journey.

But I don’t think it works that way. I don’t think you can schedule it and fit it in between items on the to-do list.

And that’s sad. I’ll try anyway. Let’s see how it goes!