Heart Tales is published monthly by Jim Cyr, an American Baptist minister, crisis intervention specialist, and storyteller.

There once was a philosopher who made an appointment to debate with a famous wise man and teacher. When the philosopher knocked on the wise man’s door at the hour agreed upon for the debate no one answered. The philosopher knocked again but there was still no answer for the wise man had forgotten their plan and was at the pub throwing darts and telling stories with his friends.

After waiting for a long time the philosopher was angry. Picking up a piece of chalk he wrote “Idiot” on the door and left in a huff.

As soon as the wise man returned home and saw his door he ran to the philosopher’s house.

“I am so sorry I forgot our appointment,” said the wise man. “I apologize for not being home. Of course I recalled our meeting as soon as I saw that you had left your name on my door.”

Adapted from Doorways to the Soul. 52 Wisdom Tales From Around the World, by Elisa Davy Pearmain

What name do I leave on the door of people’s hearts?

What do I do with the names people leave on the door of my heart?

In The Book of Virtues, William J. Bennett uses stories to teach that character counts and influences the names we write on the hearts of people.

Sometimes a story can show us a new way to think and feel about an issue, problem or hurt. A story can also show us that others have faced similar situations and found ways to cope.

Starting August 1, on my newly revised website, you’ll be able to post a request for stories on a particular issue, problem or hurt. Tell me what you are facing and I’ll suggest a story for you to think about. I’ll respond within two weeks by posting one or more actual stories you can read, retell, or work with.

This is the service that I wish had been available to me, when I began searching for stories that touch the heart.

Disclaimer: The Story Guide TM does not purport to offer therapeutic or legal advice. The stories suggested are offered for reflection only and not intended as legal, medical, psychological, or psychiatric counsel. Seek professional help for serious, legal, medical, emotional, or psychological problems.

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Dates still available for fall storytelling performances. Contact Jim today to book Heart Tales. (908) 294-1822 or jim@hearttales.net