Mythology is a data transfer protocol.

I've previously talked about my concept of Adamic Quotient (AQ)— the ability or intelligence for naming things. I value this vector of aptitude as distinct from generalized Q’s like IQ or EQ because of its unique power and value. When you have a high AQ—a developed ability to see and name things, concepts, or ideas based on observations—you possess a distinct power in transferring information to others through story.

Story, after all, is our native operating system. We process information through story, person to person, generation after generation. Tales of creation, pantheon after pantheon, culture after culture hold their canon of stories that serve as a baseline set of shared knowledge.

Mythology is a particularly rich dataset. With countless tales, from inspiring to tragic, often complex, we can look at our lives in reflection of these stories. With a single word—"herculean," "Sisyphean," "tantalizing"—we can evoke an elaborate story and relate it to a present conversation.

That is power. That is a compelling reason to study mythology.

As I move forward in my life, I see more and more the importance of sharing information with others. There is craft and skill in knowing how to resonate with others and how to transfer data from one mind to another. Knowing stories of mythology, theology, or any rich tradition gives us greater power to relate to one another.

Here’s my invitation: Next time you find yourself in conversation, ask yourself—how can I capture a whole story in a single word? How can I relate through story?

You may find yourself expressed in new creative ways.