We grow up on stories, perhaps not realising how important they are in shaping our beliefs, values and mindsets.
I want to share an example of a story that is much loved by people who are very giving that Tropher Payne has written an alternative, healthier ending to.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is about a tree that gives and gives till its end. Payne’s version has a message that invites us to move from acting purely from short-term love into acting from a more expansive love and wise boundaries. You can read it here. Enjoy! (I would replace some of its language like “nonsense” to show that we can draw boundaries with people assertively and peacefully.) And he has written other endings to other popular stories here.
If you’d like to dive into stories that we have found to be visually interesting, meaningful and wise for yourself or the children in your life, feel free to check out our picture book recommendations.
What story did you grow up on that you might change to make it healthier and wiser?
What picture-books do you find inspiring and meaningful that you could share with others?
If you could write a simple story for the world based on wisdom you’ve gained through your life, what might that be?
Vadivu Govind