Why do Stories Matter?
For centuries, people from different cultures around the world have shared their lessons and knowledge through the oral tradition of storytelling. With the introduction of the printing press, the possibility of writing stories down and sharing them far and wide become a reality. Now with the internet and social media, we can share our stories, blogs, insights and ideas with people from around the globe from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.
So why is storytelling so important?
Stories connect us
When we read Bridget Jones’s Diary or Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella, we realize we are not alone and are not the only ones who have certain personality quirks and are dealing with life challenges.
Stories promote understanding
When we read someone’s biography such as “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, we gain insight into what it was like to grow up as a black woman in the US during her time, in a family without a lot of financial resources and also what it’s like to move into the White House and become the First Lady after living a relatively private existence. When we read “Buried Beneath the Baobab Tree” it helps us understand what it could be like to be kidnapped as a young woman and enslaved by members of the Boko Haram, a radical Muslim group in Nigeria.
Stories help us heal
Many of us have stories of our past that we have locked away and not shared with anyone. An example is stories of childhood sexual abuse which need to be acknowledged and shared in order for us to heal and move on in our lives.
Stories give us hope
When we think of Martin Luther’s historic speech “I had a dream”, that dream and story laid the foundation for a different America.
Stories inspire us
When we read about someone who has faced tremendous odds and rose above them to be an amazing leader and changemaker, we are inspired by how resilient we can be as humans. Women or men who have come from poverty and risen above it to make the world a better place serve as role models for others in similar situations. They help us believe that anything is possible.
What story are you longing to tell?
A few months ago, I was given the opportunity to share a story as part of Female Wave of Change’s storytelling project. We were invited to submit a story that we thought would be helpful for others; one of 1000 words or less.
I’m excited to share that the “Stories Matter” E-book was launched at Female Wave of Change’s (FWoC) Global Conference on September 26th. This is a collection of stories contributed by women and men from all over the world: “stories of hope, of resilience, of courage, vulnerability and wisdom.”
I invite you to read this inspiring and insightful collection as a complimentary gift at: http://bit.ly/FWoCStoryBookhttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1_mom2HTs2RR6Ytrsn2zrI9CZx8u2PC5o/view
My contribution begins on page 50.
I invite you to share in the comments below one of your favorite stories in the FWoC e-book or a book or story that you have previously read, and why it matters to you.
I think it is important to acknowledge that stories are not only helpful for the reader, but could also be healthful for the writer, as a purging. Sometimes sharing our stories, whether or not a lesson is involved, gives us a deeper understanding of ourselves, and can help to heal from the hurts.
Hi Cynthia, Indeed sharing our stories can help us to heal as storytellers and provide a deeper understanding
of ourselves.Laura Cerwinske’s book “Writing as a Healing Art – The Transforming Power of Self-Expression” provides
data to support what you’ve said. She writes about and teaches a process that integrates writing, creativity and healing.
You may wish to check out her book. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!
Great collection of stories, Pam. Stories are such a powerful way to inspire others about what’s possible. And you are a rockstar global consultant with some truly amazing experiences and “lessons from the field.”
Thanks Barb for your positive feedback. The stories in the Female Wave of Change collection are indeed inspiring and provide valuable insights into the lives of authentic feminine leaders from around the globe and lessons they have learned.Each story only being a maximum of 1000 words, they are a “quick read”. We appreciate your support!