Every man thinks he’s a master story teller. He believes his skill to be far superior to his peers, his ability to weave a tale being unsurpassed in all of history. Each time he shares his plot the idea grows until it evolves into something much larger, more elaborate than itself. Eventually the story is unrecognizable. Its original form has been forgotten and only the newer structure remains. This is as it should be.
Now, being a man, I have a tale to share with you. It is, of course, much better than anything any other man has ever written before. You’ll probably recognize the plot. There are no new ideas in the world, only different versions of the same old thing.
This is no tawdry tale of love lost and found. You won’t find glorious battles between knights resplendent in shiny golden armor. My story, the one I’m about to tell, should hit a little closer to home; to reality. I’m so unoriginal that I’m going to tell your story. Actually you’re going to tell me and I will tell it back to you. It won’t be exactly the same but it will still be you. I’ll share you…with you.
Together we’ll peel back the layers to investigate what lies beneath the surface. We’ll bare all your deepest secrets. We’ll explore your past while we develop your future. There will be no boundaries and when it’s finished there will be no turning back. Your soul will reveal itself.
Some of my probings will cut to the quick. There will be pain involved. There always is during a course of self-discovery. You can’t strip away the flesh without discomfort. We’ll just let things bleed for a while. I know you’ll tell me when you’re feeling better.
Now I promise not to ask any asinine questions about your mother or your father. You won’t be expected to reveal any embarrassing childhood fears or anxieties. This isn’t that kind of session. I intend to examine your inner workings in a more direct way. More like this. How does that feel? It’s okay to cry, I’m here for you. You can let it all pour out without any fear of judgment or reprisal.
I must say we’re making good progress. We’ve made it down to the bone and you’re still with me. You’re much stronger than I would have thought. Most have left by now. I’m impressed. Let’s try something else shall we? You must be growing bored.
Hmm, it seems our time together is almost over. I see it in your eyes, the luster is gone. You’ve shared so much with me and I greatly appreciate it. Would you like me to share something with you? It is only fair, after all.
Isn’t that the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen? It took me years to find this knife. You wouldn’t believe how much it cost! You’ve probably never owned a car this expensive! It never dulls, never tarnishes. It’s balanced like a Spanish sword. She and I have danced together many times before and we’ve never had a single misstep. Would you like to hold her one more time? Of course, we’re beyond words now. You’re tired; it’s been a long night. We’ve revealed your inner depths and it’s time to send you on your way. Good bye, friend. Be well.
