The Stories We Tell
Humans love to tell stories. Many of them are useful. Some are true. Perhaps one of the greatest features that sets us as humankind apart from other animals is the ability to conceptualize and tell stories. We love stories - many have fond memories of sitting around a campfire until late at night telling stories, have been influenced by a powerful story from a sermon, or can think of a novel that has been influential in our lives. Stories can be a powerful tool for motivation and our collective stories bind us together in social groups that mostly serve us well. We are touched by heartwarming stories of compassion such as is exemplified in individuals such as Mother Theresa. We are inspired by stories of someone from a difficult background overcoming great obstacles to achieve greatness - from the leg amputee completing a triathlon to an individual that escapes an abusive or otherwise difficult family situation and goes on to make a name for themselves. Many of ...