Everyone has a story to tell. History is exciting when seen through the eyes of those who have lived it; why then are so many seniors reluctant to share?
Senior Centers everywhere offer writing classes, taught by wonderfully experienced teachers, in hopes of introducing their members to the world of creativity. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a writer, you will benefit emotionally and physically from learning how to put thoughts and memories down on paper.
No need to be afraid; there are no rules. Keep a journal (previously known as a diary) or jot down mini-stories and call it a memoir. Pick your quiet time; sit down and write a few words every day. Whether you write for yourself or write to share is up to you.
You will soon learn that pen and paper are your best friends. Write about things that you want to share; the story of you. A single memory can jog thoughts about the person you were and the person you’ve become. Ordinary experiences told in ordinary language create a history, a history that is a part of your family.
It is vitally important to find ways to share your life stories, but in order to do that you need to write them down. If you aren’t sure how to begin, check out tips on how to start a journal or write a memoir. Join one of the classes at your senior center. No pressure, just a fun group of like minded individuals. You needn’t feel that that you aren’t good enough if flowery words don’t flow from your pen; that isn’t the point of a family story. What is at stake is more important that the telling. By relating remembrances of things past you are providing insight into your family values and sharing a little bit about yourself.
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