How has "story" affected your life?
Cultural narratives shape our own life stories. In the U.S., many people like stories that follow a particular pattern: a narrator who is special or lucky in some way; who describes the world as dangerous; who has strong moral principles; who suffers but whose suffering leads to a positive outcome; and who envisions personal growth and making a difference in the future. Other research has shown that framing one's own life story as a "hero's journey" helps people overcome depression and be more resilient. What narrative template would you give to your own life? How has story affected your choices or how you see the world?
Reply to This Discussion
Have something to add? Sign in to join the discussion.
As a child I loved when the older members of my family would tell their stories. Even then I saw the thread weaving all of us into the Greater Tale. Heroism and failures; bravery and adventurers, they cemented my life-long love of stories. Now, as a senior member of the family, I can see the influence they have on our life choices and many-storied paths. We keep our generational memories alive in our storytelling.
