A full solid year of Storied Gifts and I think on review it has been an incredible year. The stack of books on my shelf reminds me that I've made new friends and proudly helped others tell their stories as only they can. Now I'm winding down several projects, and thinking about reaching out to see what clients I'll be privileged to work with for 2010.
In between this and that, I've started to take on writing my very own memoir, for my children I say, but I know that I'm also doing it for me, too. Generally, in Storied Gifts projects, I'm working with people who are probably 65 years or older. They are seasoned travelers of life and have many stories to tell. I've seen such dramatic power in this process that I've realized it is important, no matter one's age, to start telling your stories outside of your head so you can "see" them from another vantage.
There is an emotionally soothing experience that comes first from the interviews. Someone asks you questions focused solely on eliciting your recollections without judgment. The mere act of remembering and telling can be healing, insightful, and meaningful. Even more incredible is what happens once the stories are written and then read by the teller. I've witnessed the epiphanies of clients who read their life stories in their own book propelled along with their cherished photos. There is this HUGE, almost self-altering experience that takes place.
I've learned that some folks keep their life stories so much in their head, like so many photos packed away in boxes with no clear markings, that just collect potential misinterpretation. They churn there seemingly forgotten but still leaving the residue of judgment as to their meaning. Assumptions are made and stories take on only one meaning. But then, once they are told and read back by the teller, it is a marvel to see people see themselves with different eyes.
My focus is on older individuals, but this year I've learned that it is never too early to tell the stories of a one's life and gain new understanding. That is why I'm taking on my own Storied Gifts project and can't wait to work with others in 2010 to do the same. I love working with older individuals, but I encourage everyone to tell your stories no matter your age. Tell them on paper, to a trusted friend, or to a personal historian but don't let them stay locked in your head collecting dust.
photo by rakka, powered by flickr
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