Folklore - the beliefs, practices, customs, stories, jokes, songs, etc.
of people and culture, which are handed down orally from person to person or family member to family member.
Folklore is steeped in richness that creates a sense of truth and is believable.
This sense of truth and believability sets-forth an opportunity to use folklore as a learning tool.
As one such stories relates, a teacher asked a group of students, 'What are the Seven Wonders of the World?' The right answer has long been the Great Pyramids, Taj Majal, Grand Canyon, Panama Canal, Empire State Building, St Peter's Basilica and China's Great Wall.
According to this frequently repeated story, one student raised her hand to answer the teacher's question.
She said, "I think the Seven Wonders of the World are; the ability to see, hear, touch, taste, feel, laugh and love.
This story exemplifies folklore as a learning tool.
You embody all seven of the wonders of the world where you are.
You are the personification of the Seven Wonders of the World.
You are a wonder in the world, and a wonder to those who know you.
Pause now.
Close your eyes and take a deep breath.
Allow yourself to take in this wondrous truth.
You are the embodiment of the Seven Wonders of the World - the ability to see, hear, touch, taste, feel, laugh and love.
As you take in the poignancy of the Seven Wonders Of The World that indwell you, where you are, what comes to mind? Do you feel empowered? Do you notice you have a sense of joy about yourself? Do you sense the awesome nature of yourself and your fellow human and spirit beings? Enjoy the seven wonders that indwell you.