By Drew Cerino
A chill ran down my spine as the lion locked eyes with mine. One wrong move and she could be on me in a matter of seconds…
As I tell my son this story from my past, I can see his idea of who I am as a person expanding beyond the one-dimensional parent he usually sees. Our kids don’t often see us as real people who lived different lives before they came along. Each and every one of us has a story worth telling; not because we were famous or did amazing things, but because those moments, big and small, led to who we are today.
Preserving your story is more than just a trip down memory lane. Psychologists have found that reflecting on life events can improve your mood and sharpen your memory. And when you share your story, it becomes a time capsule for future generations. It helps them better understand who you are and what your journey has been like.
If the thought of trying to recall distant memories (never mind putting together a cohesive life story) intimidates you, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to remember, organize, and write your history. Try any (or several) of the following:
Audio / Video
Chances are your cell phone has a built-in voice recorder. It’s a great way to capture your thoughts as they come to you. When you’re ready, the Library District offers both video and audio studios where you can record your oral history… no writing required. Bonus: Have a family member interview you!
Written
Grab a journal and start writing or use a free service like Google Docs to gather and organize your memories. You don’t need to be a polished writer — new technology makes it easier than ever to organize your thoughts into a cohesive narrative. But don’t think that making a professional-looking book is out of reach. Many companies can print a beautiful hard copy of your book that will undoubtedly become a family heirloom for future generations. It could also be the start of a new family tradition! There are many online tools designed specifically to help jog your memory, including guided journals, writing apps, and interview-style prompts designed to fish those memories out of the recesses of your mind. Some of them even offer voice options that transcribe your thoughts as you speak.
“Preserve your memories, keep them well; what you forget you can never retell.”
– Louisa May Alcott
Photo
Don’t forget about those wonderful old photos. Modern cell phones can easily scan them for inclusion in your book. As you sort through your pictures, consider using your phone’s audio recorder to capture any memories as they come to mind — you might be amazed at what resurfaces. Remember, the goal here is to share your story, so there is no wrong way to do it. So, what are you waiting for? It all begins with jotting down the first memory… the rest will come from there!