“It is important to draw wisdom from different places. If you take it from only one place, it becomes regis and stale.” (General (Uncle) Iroh from Avatar The Last Airbender).
They say experience is the best teacher, but what about the experience of fictional characters? Something truly dynamic happens when we consume stories. The lines between reality and fiction become blurred and what’s left is the experience.
Personally, I struggle with asking for help. Naturally, I’d rather go without than to ask my parents for help. This drove my mom up the wall. She hates unnecessary suffering, especially when a simple request would alleviate the problem.
Toph (Avatar The Last Airbender) had the same issue. She ran into Uncle Iroh, who served her a cup of tea. He told her, “There is nothing wrong with letting people who love you, help you. Not that I love you, I just met you.”
I would not be the person I am today without the guidance and wisdom of Uncle Iroh, a man I’ve never met, but know all too well.
What powerful lessons have you learned from your favorite stories? What book/movie/show has changed your life forever? What story has changed your child’s life?