As we tell tales we’re stitching “something” into our listeners and a good teller will often pull that “something” like a string throughout the narrative to tighten up its audience a little more - bring them a little closer to each other - or whatever place the teller is trying to reach. And we wanted to share some stories with you, whose content reflects that search for unity and harmony where there might have been dischord, or isolation before. Stories and songs about people -- or animals -- coming together. Stories included in this episode:

Cranes by Susan Reed (1:36)

A group of cranes used to fly over the world spreading peace behind them but then one day the lead crane suddenly dies, and consequently disrupts the flow of harmony in the world . The song that accompanies this piece is called Paper Cranes. Learn more about Susan Reed, whose album Lion in the Sky has won several awards including the Tillywig Gold Award, by visiting: www.susanreed.com

Heart in Our Hands by Kevin Cordi (23:02)

In a land where people's hearts are on their hands, one man learns an immaculate heart is not actually the most beautiful heart one can have. Learn more about Kevin Cordi, who is also an author and an international award winning educator in addition to being a storyteller, by visiting: www.kevincordi.com

The Power of Love by Michael McCarty (30:37)

While traveling around India he's confronted with some difficulties just because of the color of his skin, but instead of getting angry he decides to respond by "sending love" to those who are giving him a rough time. Learn more about Michael McCarty, who won the South African Candlelight Award for Sharing Hope in 1998, by visiting: www.havemouthwillrunit.com

Alegria! We Sing as One by Leeny Del Seamonds (39:12)

A song about singing altogether. Learn more about Leeny Del Seamonds, the 2015 winner of the National Storytelling Network Oracle Cirlce of Excellence Award, by visiting: www.leenydelseamonds.com

House on the Hill by Heather Forest (41:11)

A whole bunch of animals work together to build a home they can all share. Learn more about Heather Forest, who is an award winning author of various types of work, by visiting: www.heatherforest.com

The Bundle of Sticks by The Storycrafters (46:09)

Three sisters discover the reason why their grandmother kept a bundle of sticks over the fireplace. Learn more about The Storycrafters, recipients of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award, by visiting: www.storycrafters.com