Stories Rebuilt

Some people are born Storytellers:  they know how to hold an audience with their words, expressions, and energy; they artfully weave together drama and humor; they listen and recount experiences that are relatable.  Timing is a part of their gift... when and how to unite us around Our Story.

An international audience witnessed the opening of Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral last week -- a centuries-old story of faith, triumph, destruction, and rebirth.

What story do you tell about yourself?
(Photo:  Notre Dame Cathedral facade, Paris, France - Larry Gardepie)

It was inspiring to see how the carpenters, painters, and artisans brought new life into the heart of Parish after the devastating fire of 2019.  The national pride and international celebration melted -- for a moment -- divisions that had separated us through religion, culture, and politics.

It was a blending of old and new: respecting the past by honoring earlier craftsmanship; infusing current methods to protect and strengthen; laying the groundwork to continue telling the faith story of Notre Dame.

What face do you put on your life's story?
(Photo:  Notre Dame Cathedral, July 2006 - Larry Gardepie)

Having been to Paris several years ago, I was able to understand the significance of this cathedral's place in French history.  Now, the world was being invited into this nation's story... uniting under a human story of hopes, dreams, and overcoming tragedy.

I wonder if this rebirth is about ourselves as well:  letting light through the windows of our eyes and mind to soften our hearts?

How is your life colored by the beauty of other people?
(Photo:  Rose Window, Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris - Larry Gardepie)

As we practice how to dialogue and listen to one another, maybe we are invited to:

• Respect or honor the past;
  
• Allow current ways to change and strengthen us; and,
  
• Lay the groundwork to bring us together.

The story being told right now is one of division and separation.  Are you being called to be a Storyteller that unites and encourages?

Think about it... and begin the rebirth in you.

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting