All Heritage Makers consultants know the story: Grandpa Wozney didn't think his story was anything special. He was a little reticent when Candy approached him about writing his story. All the same, he let Candy interview him. The resulting story (written in storybook style for her kids) became their favorite story. They could quote from it, and they developed a relationship with and love for their great grandpa who lived 1,000 miles away.
Because here's the truth: Grandpa Wozney's story WAS something special. It was and continues to be special to every single person who loves him.
And for the rest of us, the moral of the story is this: EVERY story matters. Everyone has a story. Everyone has a story worth telling.
Whether writing your own life story or the life story of a parent, grandparent, or other family member, the project can be somewhat daunting if you don't know where to start. Having a list of questions to follow or just use as a jumping off point can be very helpful.
Three Resources with Questions to Help You Write a Life Story
Here are some very helpful resources as you begin writing a life story, whether it's yours or someone else's. These will get your thoughts rolling.
- {60 Questions} from OneFam
- {Creating Family Stories} from Evolve via LifeTales Books
- {#52stories} from FamilySearch
You can use these exactly or see what thoughts come into your mind while you read them. You'll probably get other thoughts and ideas during the process. Listen to your intuition and inspiration. While these questions are a great place to start, you may think of questions that are more specific to the person, questions that shouldn't be missed. Get started and your heart will give you additional questions and points to document.
When You Should Write YOUR Life Story
If you're wondering when you should write YOUR life story, {this post} outlines the benefits of life stories--to the writer and to the reader--as well as an easy option for creating it right in the publishing program so you don't have to write it twice.
How to Professionally Publish a Life Story (without a hassle)
Create your book in your private, online account, then submit it for publishing on heirloom-quality products before it's shipped to your door. You can find more information at the {how to get started} tab above.
Who do you need to get to know a little better? Whose legacy shouldn't be forgotten? Who needs to get to know you a little better? A life story is the key.
It's a treasured gift now and for years and generations to come.
