Before we can do or be, we must be able to imagine. Today on Home School Heartbeat, HSLDA President Mike Smith talks with Mark Hamby about the way stories shape what we believe about reality, morality, and hope.
Mike Smith:
Mark, last time we talked about how actions flow from the heart, and how the heart can be reached by stories. Now tell us about the gift of imagination. What is moral imagination? And how do good stories shape it in positive ways?
Mark Hamby:
Well, stories where characters receive the rewards for right choices will inspire and motivate both young and old to adopt a similar moral code as they begin to emulate the characters that have now been etched into their awakened moral conscience. Ronald Reagan, for example, when he was 11 years old was made to read the book That Printer of Udell’s by his grandmother. That book had such an influence in his life that it inspired him not only to become President of the United States, but also led him to Jesus Christ as his Savior. Stories really do awaken us as we see them lived out in the lives of others.
Mike:
So, Mark, what would you say is one sign of a story that has this good effect?
Mark:
Well, Paul teaches that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, character produces hope, and hope never disappoints us. Joseph in the Bible is a good example of these truths. Today, however, there is little hope in our culture because of the lack of character. Thus, we need heroes and heroines who can inspire our children to endure adversity. ‘Cause endurance leads to character which leads to hope, and hope doesn't disappoint us.
Mike:
Oh, Mark, that’s a great idea. And thanks for sharing that with us today! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
