Personal Histories (does anyone care?)

Often when you say, “personal histories” people get a pit in their stomach and think “not for me.” Well, I’m here to let you know it is for you, and you can do it! If you’re wondering if anyone cares, think for a moment about one of your grandparents and how great it would be to hear about their life’s experiences in their own words! Most of the time we have a few stories— but putting it all together from their point of view is priceless.

This is the gift you can give your family. The good news is there is no right way to write a personal history. Today I’ll give you three possible ways to get started:

1. List categories and write memories under each one i.e.: childhood, jobs, friends, school, etc.

2. Start with “I was born in Mesa, Arizona on…” and continue in a free flow of thoughts from your early memories on.

3. Write down a variety of topics on slips of paper and put in a jar. Pull one out a day to write about. You can always add a few lessons learned or wisdom acquired to pass on to the next generation, (provided you have actually learned something).

If you’ve finished your history, I recommend talking with your parents and grandparents. Write down their stories, you can even record them on your phone. Before you know it, you’ll have some memories, stories, and important dates. Begin today!

Someday, sometime, someone will read your history and it will matter to them.

P.S. Your grandchild will forever thank you that they don’t have to piece together your life from dates and news clippings after you pass on.