Don't forget - stories were how we built community, taught and entertained B4 all else (the tribe/family gathered round the fire) like plays, theater, movies and TV. Parables were at one time (pre-GrecoRoman) THE teaching method. They served to give meaning, purpose, and other existential data. In the '80s we began using them in a form of psychotherapy (narrative) and shortly after for community organizing/advocacy ("tell your story to the camera") rather than 2nd party appeals. Story seems to go out on one level but sinks much deeper into the listener (ID w/speaker, reflect on self, edging below consciousness). I come from a family of story tellers (mostly abt the bygone family/ancestors or their own foibles shared at Thanksgiving, picnics or other cross generational gatherings). Not the true story tellers who spin marvelous yarns "Jack'n the Bean Stalk", African Tails, 1st People creation story or stand up comedians) - -Chad
