4. Looks Aren’t Everything – the Story of Narcissus
We all know someone who is a total narcissist, and that term actually originates from Greek myths. The story of Narcissus tells the tale of a gorgeous man who fell in love with his own reflection. It was predicted that Narcissus would have a long, wonderful life, as long as he never saw his own reflection. His whole life Narcissus rejected all attempts of others to earn his affections, even causing some of his suitors to commit suicide just to prove their unrequited love. When the goddess of love got word of this, Narcissus was punished by a love that would never be fulfilled. He fell in love with his own reflection, a love that could never be truly returned, and ultimately he killed himself because he could not bear the agony of unfulfilled love. As with most myths, this story is an extreme version of modern realities, but the lesson is there: be kind to others, be open-minded to love and affection from others, and remember that looks are not everything. Don’t become obsessed with your own looks and focus on what is inside yourself and others, as that’s where true love and fulfillment will come from.
Trackbacks & Pingbacks
[…] Every story had a meaning, had a lesson and had an important point to make. They weren’t just fantastical stories, and while they were often dramatic, violent, and pretty crazy, they weren’t trying to make money like today’s blockbuster films or TV programs. According to the History Channel, “in ancient Greece, stories about gods and goddesses and heroes and monsters were an important part of everyday life. They explained everything from religious rituals to the weather, and they gave meaning to the world people saw around them.” And today, those same stories can tell us a lot about our current lives. They can help remind us about what is important. They can warn us against behavior that could sabotage our own happiness or safety. And they can help us teach our children about what really matters in life. Here are 5 life lessons we can learn (and pass on to future generations) from Greek mythology. (Source: Mamiverse, 2017) […]
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