Stories

 Stories are what help people to relate, to be brought into the orbit of the story-teller.  That is why there are stories in the Bible, the Big Book, the Grapevine, and numerous other spiritual writings.  People are not initially attracted to techniques, rules, beliefs, traditions unless there is a personal story that goes with it.  I tend to tell a bit of my own story in a homily or teaching.  Some say this is trash and not what I am supposed to be doing in preaching.  Yet I have found that people will catch my attention with a personal story.  In Recovery gatherings, it is often a story that gets the attention of a newcomer.  Many people don’t even know that they are looking for a spiritual connection.  They do know they are feeling isolated, overwhelmed and maybe a bit lost.  Stories give us hope that there is a solution.