Abstract:
Sharing our stories has been described, by those in the field as well as by popular opinion,
as a way to foster healing and reconciliation following violent conflict. This article argues
that sharing stories is in itself not necessarily helpful. It is when our stories are shattered
by the story of another that meaningful change can begin to take place and new stories can
emerge. This idea will be explored in the South African context, with reference to the Truth
and Reconciliation Commission as well as current events. It will consider storytelling and
reconciliation using John Lederach’s four-part model of justice, truth, mercy and peace.
