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Four Favorite Parables I Carry Around in My Head
I absolutely love storytelling as a means of learning something new. Coming across the right story at the right time has influenced the trajectory of my life.
The following are four of my favorite stories that have had an ongoing impact on me. They are stored in my head, some for 30+ years, and come to the forefront of my mind almost of their own volition.
In some cases, I have come across multiple versions of the same story. I think that speaks to the power of the message.
I’ve decided to refer to them as parables, whether or not they technically fall under that label. Merriam-Webster defines “parable” as “a usually short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or religious principle.” That’s close enough for my intent.
These are all short. The last one is the shortest (two sentences) and most recently acquired, but has also served as a more immediate lens through which to observe my own behavior. It also has the crudest humor. Might be why I connected with it.
It seems to be standard practice to include some sort of explanation or commentary when sharing parables like this. I’m not going to do that.
