Tell Me a Story

Why tell or write your story? So many reasons! When we take the time to remember the important moments and milestones in our lives, we can increase both our understanding of ourselves and our connection to other people. There is nothing quite so compelling as a story that makes sense of the raw material of life.

Recently my father started sifting through photographs of his life and choosing key images that sparked memory. With each he has composed a short essay describing the place, person, or experience—a “picture story.” As he has progressed, he has picked up steam and now has quite a collection. This process has brought both joy and some poignant pauses of emotion.

From time to time I have interviewed my mother and gathered the fragments of her childhood, youth, and progress into adulthood. I see the pleasure she draws from this deep exchange of listening and sharing and I gain the perspective of seeing her through her own eyes and narrative.

Perhaps the most challenging task is recording your own story. Who will care? What is the purpose? It turns out that there are many rewards - social, emotional, and relational. Take a look at these simple yet powerful ideas to get yourself thinking of the possibilities and benefits:

https://www.familysearch.org/blog/en/18-writing-tips-tell-stories/