This is How We Story
Aug 13, 2024Every person has a story—a thread that runs through the heart of who they are. Stories aren’t just a series of events; they’re the pulse of our lives, connecting, teaching, and inspiring us. From childhood tales to epic film sagas, stories offer ways to understand the world and ourselves, bridging divides and spanning generations.
My journey with storytelling began in an unexpected place: a grocery store aisle when I was six. Drawn to a woman handing out samples, I found more than just grape Kool-Aid and cookies. That brief, simple conversation taught me that storytelling is less about words and more about connection. It was a moment that has stayed with me, shaping my view of the world.
Growing up, stories were my constant companions—from the lessons of Sesame Street to Mr. Rogers’ gentle wisdom. I came to see that stories aren’t just entertaining; they’re powerful tools that create empathy, inspire change, and build connections. This realization led me to become a mental health clinician, where I became not only a listener but a keeper of stories. Through my work, and later my studies in media psychology, I rediscovered the power of my own voice.
In 2022, I decided to step into storytelling actively, reclaiming my voice to share it with others. Now, in 2024, my commitment to storytelling is stronger than ever as I explore more deeply the stories we tell and how they shape our relationships and understanding. From books and TV shows to daily conversations, I look for insights from psychology and the social sciences to examine why stories resonate so deeply. Ultimately, it’s not just about telling stories—it’s about discovering the experiences and connections that shape us all because this is how we "story."