"Some stories are true that never happened."

It's fascinating how some tales, even if they never actually occurred, can carry deep truths. Think about what that means. Sometimes, the essence or moral of a story can resonate with us profoundly, even if the events themselves are fictional.

Take Aesop's Fables, for instance. They’re filled with talking animals and magical occurrences. Did a tortoise really race a hare? Probably not. But the truth of the story—that sometimes slow and steady wins the race—hits home. These fables, though not based on real events, convey truths about human nature, persistence, and wisdom.

Imagine you’re talking to a friend who’s just suffered a setback. You might remind them of the story of the tortoise and the hare to emphasize patience and perseverance. Even though the race between the tortoise and the hare didn’t really happen, the lesson is real—and it’s applicable.

Let’s dive into a more modern example. Think about the Harry Potter series. Hogwarts isn’t a real school, and magic wands don’t exist. But the themes of friendship, bravery, and the struggle against evil are universal truths. When you read about Harry’s loyalty to his friends or his courage in the face of Voldemort, you’re tapping into real, human experiences. Those stories move us because they reflect real emotions and situations we all face.

So how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by considering the stories you tell yourself. Are there narratives that, though not literally true, carry profound truths about who you are or who you want to be? Maybe the story of a fictional character’s triumph over adversity inspires you to tackle your own challenges. Let these stories guide your actions and decisions. They can act as powerful metaphors for your own life.

Here’s a relatable scenario to bring this home. Picture a young woman named Jess. She’s always loved the story of Mulan—how Mulan disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army. This story never happened, and yet, it’s true for Jess. It’s true in how it inspires her to be brave and defy societal expectations. When Jess faces a daunting task at work, she thinks of Mulan. She remembers the courage and determination that story represents. Even though Mulan’s exact events never occurred, the truth of Mulan’s bravery fuels Jess’s own courage.

In a way, we’re all Jess. We all have those stories that, on the surface, are just that—stories. But they contain truths we hold dear. So, next time you're in a coffee shop sharing tales with a friend, think about the deeper truths behind those stories. They don’t need to have happened to be true. They just need to resonate with you, to inspire you, to change you.

After all, isn't that what the best stories do? They tell us something true about ourselves, even if they never happened. So go ahead, embrace those stories. Tell them, share them, live them. They’re truer than you might think.