“In the end, we’ll all become stories.”
Margaret Atwood

I sat in a small room across from a woman who happened to be a psychic. The walls of her salon were painted purple. A slight breeze came through the window behind her that looked out onto a peaceful rose garden. As we faced each other across the small table, I told her a little bit about myself. And then she asked how she could help me. I can’t remember the question I asked her, it was something about my life at the time.

I do remember her response!

“It’s time to put down all the “how-to” books and read some story. Enjoy yourself. Find a good story, she went on. She raised her hands decorated with rings. Take a break from all the guru advice.

“In your heart, there is an answer.”  

This is a true story, and it’s one reason I regularly include fiction on my reading list. Self help books are very important, but fiction has its place in the mix also.

While reading fiction, alternatives for human perspective show themselves in the application of life. Some helpful, some not so much. We can decide for ourselves if we agree with the characters, or ask questions they haven’t concerned themselves with. We can watch their mistakes and enjoy their triumphs. 

In the end, the story may bring a new perspective to a situation in your own life. The art of story also brings feeling, and feeling has the potential to open channels of seeing in inner places where visibility is not clear. 

In your heart, there is an answer.

I once found a book in a used bookstore called The Stone Of Light by Christian Jacq.

It takes place in ancient Egypt and is about a community of artists. In the story, they are a secret society supported by Pharaoh’s government. The people live in this community and are selected by a council based upon their trade, art, expertise and commitment.

They must also behold a spiritual component to their work. They live daily ritual, create, practice healing arts, pray, chant and celebrate as they hone their art creating for the tombs.

There are sculptors, painters, dancers, stone masons, gardeners, and priestesses to name a few, including architects, metal forgers, and cooks. With consequences, the story also includes a villain. And finally there are life changes and love.

The book was so enthralling, I wanted to read the whole series. But the books were out of print. So I scoured the internet, found them, and paid more than I would for a new book because the story was so inspiring. I wanted to be in that life story.

I also learned that :

I wanted my art and service to bring meaning that would help others too.

You have the ability to affect your own life story. What appeals to your heart gives clues and inspiration. Have you read a fiction book that inspired something you want for your own life story?

You are invited to share your favorite fiction title that inspired you. I’ll gather the recommendations for a booklist of inspiring fiction for your consideration.

Add your recommended favorite here

Catherine Gardner is an ally to those on the inner journey to wholeness and belonging through Interactive Guided Imagery℠ and Creative Expression.