Kevin Bemel ·
Why Myths Benefit Society
Do you know the story of George Washington cutting down the cherry tree? My daughter, in the tradition of generations of American school children, learned it for President’s Day. It teaches the virtue of telling the truth, even when doing so may result in being punished. Is the story truth or legend? More importantly, does it matter?
When I got to the submarine squadron, I met the chaplain for Naval Base Point Loma. We had a delightful conversation that addressed many subjects, among them the place of myth in the fabric of a society. We talked about how the Bible often uses parables and allegories to explain moral lessons.
That many of these stories did not happen is irrelevant to the profound teachings they reveal. They endure because they are vivid and memorable. Perhaps it will not seem strange that we were equally fervent in embracing cultural myths. One stipulation: they must convey truth.
As we strive for truth, it is well to remember that it can be uncovered in many ways.
Question – Which myths do you find to be valuable or destructive?
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