Why do we cherish stories? Why do we seek them out, in all their forms?

Why do stories represent a lasting form, created at the dawn of time and continuing into the future? What is it about stories that we don't get from life? Why do we beg crazy uncles to tell us the story of the fishing trip? Why do children love bedtime stories? Why can a simple tale cause deep emotion--sometimes so profound it heals wounds and redeems the soul? What do stories hide between their words?

Humans yearn for connections between other similar people, but we also wish for experiences beyond our own. Stories provide both. Have you ever dreamed of being in space? Find a story about astronauts and experience it. Craving the yearning joy of long lost lovers returning to each other? Grab a book and dive in. Stories trigger every part within us, plucking our heartstrings and dazzling our senses. They provide information, give advice, surge our adrenalin and furnish many people with jobs and careers.

I believe stories are much more than the events they contain. Stories are how we discover the world we won't--or can't--ever see ourselves. Without stories, we live in a very small place indeed. Also, stories provide escape, to fantastical worlds and impossible situations. The imagination of others is spectacular, giving without ceasing in its variety. I will always love stories, whatever medium they use.

Naturally, stories don't have to be books, but I've always preferred them.

- M