Stories become your reality. I believe the phrase is “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life”. From young, we are exposed to stories in various forms, such as books, movies, and television shows. These stories shape our perception of what we experience in the world.
Stories with fantastic premises
Fictional stories have the power to transport us to different worlds and introduce us to unique characters and cultures. They challenge our assumptions and provide us with new perspectives. For example, a story about a character who overcomes adversity can inspire us to do the same. We would respond to pain the same way our heroes would.
Similarly, a story that portrays a different culture or way of life can help us to develop an appreciation for diversity and broaden our worldview.
When I watched Black Panther in the theatres, I experienced something new. I was experiencing a “refreshing” visual and audio feat. Watching people of different cultures, naming styles, costumes, facial structures, and skin colour, impacted me in a way I never thought possible.
An impactful reality check
Real-life narratives can also shape our perception of reality. Biographies, memoirs, and news stories can give us insight into the experiences of others and help us to understand the complexities of the world around us. By learning about the struggles and triumphs of others, we can develop empathy and compassion.
Stories can also influence our thoughts and beliefs. They can challenge what we accept as “normal” and inspire us to question the status quo. For example, a story about social injustice can motivate us to take action and work towards creating a more just society.
Stories can connect us with others. Giving us a path to common ground and building relationships. It helps us navigate difficult experiences by providing us with a sense of community and support.
Inspiring us deep within
I remember watching a particular anime in high school about a character who struggled to rid himself of his past. The anime was Rurouni Kenshin a.k.a Samurai X.
The story was incredibly powerful because it presented a reality where a person’s beginnings have no weight on how they end up. It depends on how a person makes full use of his present.
Then, Kungfu Panda came out. Which shared similar story beats and were equally powerful to me.
Stories about characters who overcome adversity can be incredibly inspiring. These stories give us hope and motivation to overcome our own struggles. Everyone can benefit from stories like these, as they remind us that we can do great things even in the face of great adversity.
In addition to their emotional impact, stories can also be incredibly entertaining. Whether we are reading a novel, watching a movie, or listening to a podcast, stories have the power to captivate us and keep us engaged.
An educational experience like none other
If you were to learn about ancient Egypt through a textbook, I bet that you would be fast asleep before reaching page 3.
Now imagine, if you were learning about ancient Egypt through a movie. Stories can be a great source of education. Historical novels, movies or series, for instance, provide insight into the past and help us understand the present.
When presented as a story, it’s easier to empathise with key historical figures. Because they are the main character in the story you’re watching. When presented in the right way, you feel invested in their development. You want to know more. And it’s not surprising that you’ll be able to remember details, from the significant to the miscellaneous, about this character.
Imagine, how many people believed that Abraham Lincoln was a vampire hunter when that movie came out.
Learning about different cultures and ways of life, as well as historical events and their significance becomes easy. Clues to how society or an entire nation can move from one historic point to another are seared into our memory.
Giving reason to rally
Stories can also be therapeutic. They help us process our emotions and come to terms with difficult experiences. Writing our own stories, whether they are fiction or non-fiction, can be a powerful way to express ourselves and make sense of our lives.
Sharing our stories with others can also rally people together. Building healthy communities that impact society for the better.
Stories can have other impacts on society. They can raise awareness about important issues, challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and inspire change. For example, works of literature such as “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “The Color Purple” have played a significant role in shaping the conversation around race in America.
The key takeaway
Stories are a vital part of our human experience. They have the power to educate, entertain, heal, and transform. By sharing our stories and listening to the stories of others, we can build empathy, understanding, and connection. I believe that stories will continue to play an important role in shaping our society, and I am excited to see how we tell our stories in the future.
