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Myths: How Our Stories Reveal Our Hidden Life

Myths: How Our Stories Reveal Our Hidden Life

Last updated on: June 24, 2025 at 8:46 pm by Dr. Mike Simmons

Myths: How Our Stories Reveal Our Hidden Life 2025-06-24T20:46:27-07:00 Dr. Mike Simmons

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Creation of the Animals by Raphael

What is a Myth?

When you hear the word “myth,” what comes to mind? For many, the association is with something untrue or non-factual. Myths, in our modern understanding, is often equated with a lies. But as anthropologist Joseph Campbell writes, myths are “a series of lies meant to reveal the truth.” Check out his book Thou Art That & his timeless interview, The Power of Myth here.

Myths aren’t concerned with historical accuracy or past events. Instead, they delve into hidden realities—the unseen truths that shape human experience across time. They speak to what happens within us, right now and always. Let’s look at this through the lens of the Genesis creation story. In this creation myth, humanity begins in a state of unity, naked and unashamed, walking with the divine. Over time, there is a separation from that unity, leading to self-awareness, vulnerability, and a desire to conceal certain parts of ourselves. Suspicion arises—of the divine, of others, of ourselves.

This isn’t just a tale about humanity’s origins; it’s a mirror of our personal journeys. Each of us experiences moments when we awaken to consciousness, leaving behind the womb-like state of childhood to face the complexities of adulthood. These transitions, though often challenging, push us to explore who we are, what we value, and how we move forward.

Joseph Campbell’s Four Functions of Myth

In his book Thou Art That, Joseph Campbell identifies four key functions of myth.

1. Awakening to the Divine and Transcendent

Myths awaken us to the divine—to something greater than ourselves. This transcendent experience might occur in a sacred space, a forest, or even in the solitude of your own room. The symbols and stories in myths point us toward moments of awakening, where we feel deeply connected to something beyond the ordinary. You can read more on How Religion Protects & Deprives Us.

2. Interpreting the World

Myths shape how we see and understand the world. The stories, symbols, and metaphors we internalize create a lens through which we interpret reality. For example, in the context of Christian nationalism, the Bible’s narratives are filtered through a particular mythological lens, shaping how individuals perceive morality, community, and power. On the other hand, myths that emphasize compassion and inclusivity—like finding the divine in the stranger or the marginalized—can inspire a vastly different worldview.

3. Validating and Supporting Moral Order

Myths establish the moral frameworks that guide our lives. They define what is right and wrong, allowable and forbidden. However, when these frameworks become rigid, they can exclude essential aspects of humanity. For instance, myths rooted in power and dominance may suppress vulnerability, diversity, or creativity. Conversely, myths that celebrate empathy and interconnectedness can foster greater acceptance and understanding.

4. Guiding Us Through Life’s Transitions

This final function is my focus here: myths help us navigate life’s stages and crises by reconnecting us with a regenerative Source. Life is full of thresholds—those liminal spaces where we leave one stage behind and step into another. From childhood to adolescence, from adolescence to adulthood, and through the many transitions of adult life, myths allow us to truly transform through these shifts. They help us integrate our past, navigate the present, and prepare for the future.

Navigating Thresholds and Crises

A threshold as the space between two separate spaces. It’s neither the old room you’re leaving nor the new room you’re entering. This in-between space can feel disorienting, even painful. Our myths allow us to include and transcend our previous experience as we move closer to our authentic selves. They remind us that what served us in the past may no longer be helpful as we step into new possibilities.

In many traditional myths, this process is framed as a death and rebirth. To be reborn, we must let go of outdated beliefs, roles, or stories that no longer serve our growth. This isn’t about rejecting the past but about evolving into a fuller, more conscious version of ourselves.

The Role of Shadow Work in Reconnecting with Myth

Shadow work complements this mythological journey by helping us explore the unconscious parts of ourselves. Often, the crises we face arise because our current myths no longer align with who we are becoming. Shadow work allows us to question these old stories and make space for new symbols and images to emerge.

These new myths aren’t something we consciously create; they arise naturally as we engage with our inner worlds. They carry us forward, aligning us with the vitality and authenticity of the self—the deeper essence of who we are.

Reflecting on Your Own Myths

As you consider the myths shaping your life, ask yourself:

What stories or beliefs no longer serve who I am and who I’m becoming?
What do I need to let go of in order to move forward?
What new symbols or stories are emerging in my life?

This process of reflection isn’t always easy, but it’s essential for growth. By consciously engaging with your myths, you open the door to transformation and a deeper connection with your true self. This article is available in a video version on my YouTube channel

If you’re ready to explore this journey further, shadow work can provide the guidance and support you need. Schedule a free 20-minute discovery call to see if this process is a good fit for you. Together, we can uncover the myths, symbols, and stories already unfolding within you and align them with your journey toward wholeness.

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About Dr. Michael Simmons

Michael is a shadow work facilitator, spiritual director, teacher, writer, and psycho-spiritual enthusiast. He holds a Doctorate (DLd) from Portland Seminary, and sits on the board of Deep Water Ministry and the Companioning Center in Newberg, Oregon. Michael offers sacred space for people from various faith and non-faith traditions, as well as all LGBTQIA+ individuals, to explore and integrate their inner landscape. Michael writes with an intent to introduce readers to their hidden depths, and provide tools, language, and practices for how to befriend and integrate what they find. You can read more about the author here.

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