Stories Inspire
The theme – Stories Inspire – remains an inspriation to all who understand the power and wisdom to be gained through the sharing and hearing of stories. ICNZ’s vision is to create opportunities for community strengthening through dialogue and story telling. Why? Read on…
We are made of stories. From the time we come into the world, people tell us stories. As we grow older, we speak them, understand them and remember them. Everyone has a story to tell.
“People who hold common stories about where they come from, who they are, and who they will, or want to be are a community. A community cannot be a community without a shared narrative” (Julian Rappaport).
Stories have the power to strengthen or break down community. Creating and telling stories that isolate people eats away at the fabric of community.
Compelling stories about real people in real situations have widespread emotional impact. Stories that motivate, persuade, inform and inspire; stories that are memorable and powerful; they move us. They change our beliefs, attitudes and behaviours. Stories can trigger change and change generates stories.
The sharing of stories can facilitate recognition of diversity and inclusion of all people, ultimately strengthening communities. ICNZ’s vision includes exploring ways to assist ‘others’ in turning their ‘tales of terror’ into ‘tales of joy’, where ‘otherness’ is welcomed and valued and celebrated.
American poet and political activist, Muriel Rukeyser, said “The universe is made of stories, not atoms”. Telling one’s own story is an act of empowerment and has the power to transform community.
