Stories We Used to Tell
Published on Nov 20, 2015
A look at changing humanity's stories, our collective myths, back to sane ones.
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Long Ago, Our stories
weren't centered on war or warriors.
War, warriors, and heroes were not the main plot of humanity's stories or myths for a very long time. Our social system of patriarchy would like you to think that war is the ultimate story of humanity. But that's simply not true.
Photo by Jason Pier in DC
Men Weren't the primary Focus
in our stories, the way they are now.
And our ancient stories weren't focused on just WHITE males either.
Photo by mohammadali
the Natural world
Instead, Our stories included the wonders of
We learn through stories, myths. The most fascinating topic around is the natural world and how we fit into it.
Photo by Stoic Meditation
Women & Girls
The unique abilities of
Ancient myths tell us women invented writing, weaving fiber, and our concept of time.
Photo by nick_russill
animals and Birds.
and the Powers of
Animals and birds teach us how to live as part of an entire sustainable system. They also reflect intelligence, friendship, problem-solving, and compassion back to us.
Photo by Wonderlane
Our Stories, our Myths
included the diversity of life.
Life thrives on diversity and allows an abundance of innovation, color, eccentricities, passions, and individuality within community. Our myths used to reflect that as well.
Photo by Stuck in Customs
we belong to everything,
These Myths taught us how
We are meant to be an integral (yet not dominant) part of the vast natural world. We are used to understand that LIFE was the wisest and that we have a lot to learn.
Photo by @Doug88888
starry skies above.
Even to the
The symmetry and cycles of our galaxy are clearly mirrored here on earth. Animal, plant, and oceanic life are attuned to the patterns and movements of our starry skies. Our myths used to inform us about all these connections.
Photo by Astronomr
Violence & Control
weren't the focus of our stories long ago.
Violence, control, and male domination are key themes in the patriarchal myths we are currently inundated with. These destructive sensational myths don't teach us much of anything about the natural world. But then, that's not their raison d'être either.
Photo by JD Hancock
Wonder & Awe
Filled them and us.
Wonder and awe often come from experiences where we recognize something much more magnificent than ourselves. Our hearts soften, our eyes grow wide ,and our whole being is annointed with humble joy.
Photo by lighthack
sacred beings.
that's why myths were about
Our myths used to tell us about the power of LOVE, the grand wonder of LIFE, and the jaw-dropping honor of sharing this planet with astonishing others. We understood that Life is holy, Love is holy, the world is holy, we are holy.
Photo by Stuck in Customs
Humanity needs better stories
to help us remember
I am a feminist comparative mythologist. I have researched why our current stories are so misguided and damaging to ourselves and the planet. My main focus is to reclaim sustainable myths so that we can re-story ourselves back into balance.
Photo by Chris | christopherharrison.net
Who we really are.
I welcome your passion and participation in changing our stories with me!
Photo by Leo Reynolds
Thanks for viewing this Deck
- Created by feminist mythologist:
- Margaret Merisante, Ph.D.
- mythwoman.com
Photo by Robb North
