I was once told people stories. Humans have a fascination with words, with the sounds and rhythms, with the nuances and subtleties, often not even realizing how a slight change of inflection, a small turn of phrase can change their perspective on...everything.
I encounter those nuances everyday working as a teacher of ESL. Of course, I can’t think of any good examples right now, but it’s amazing the difference a word can make in meaning and, as you said, perspective.
That’s an interesting list of proverbs you directed me to. Thanks.