We define ourselves and reality itself with public and private stories, with conversations and internal monologues, through printed words and projected images, and with just plain talk. We are forever telling stories that determine what we believe, what we feel, and how we act. The stories we believe may send us on heroic quests for knowledge and adventure, on sacrificial missions of the heart, or down more than a few cockeyed paths. Perhaps we tell a timid story that keeps us safely at home, guaranteeing that no one will dare to disrupt our routines. Our love stories can convince us that love is worth any sacrifice, too dangerous to touch, or forever withheld.
All stories have consequences.
Some stories, like arrows, can pierce the body, leave permanent scars, or be fatal. Other stories work like buckets at the well and keep bringing up the fresh water that keeps us alive. All stories will nourish some dreams and neglect others. They either help us on our way, sweep us off course, or entrap us. Never underestimate the power of a story.