We often think of pictures as nothing more than fun, but did you know that the preserving of photos and stories and memories (or "memory-keeping") can have a powerful effect on families and individuals?
This beautiful, touching video from The Church of Jesus Christ who sponsors RootsTech highlights real experiences of people discovering how important their stories are to their loved ones. It is SO WORTH the 7 minute watch!
The truth is: You matter. Your story--your life, your impact--is worth remembering.
What Makes Your Story Important
Not too long ago, I was invited to write a short guest post about what your story (your story, your family's story) means to others and the power it has! Photos and stories have been shown in studies to increase self-esteem, increase happiness, increase relaxation, and decrease stress.
Read more at my article The Powerful Effects of Memory-Keeping on Families.
In fact, if you'd like to know just how good for you preserving your photos, stories, and memories is, check out this impressive list of benefits.
Easily Preserving Your Story and Photos
Preserving your stories, photos, and memories doesn't have to be hard. In fact, it's better when it's easy because you're more likely to do it, and you're more likely to do it soon while memories are fresh.
So I've made two tutorial videos that will help. Tell your own legacy story this way
or preserve your everyday stories and memories this way.
The legacy story tutorial is longer than the yearbook tutorial because it was part of a class I taught, so you'll learn about the importance of legacy and get some resources and helpful ideas for where to start when preserving your legacy story. The yearbook tutorial shows you the basics and then you're ready to go.
Both use free, web-based software that is very intuitive and easy to use, and both will be professionally printed using the highest quality inks, papers, and bindings in the industry. You want your preserved memories to last for years and years to come! This link can also help you get started.
NOTE: I am a Forever affiliate (a decision I made because I love it so much), so you will find several affiliate links in this post, from which I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
Your story is worth remembering. So, don't wait! You will benefit from the process of preserving and recording your memories, and so will your loved ones.
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So true! So important to preserve those stories/memories.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely. Thanks for visiting, Amy. :)
DeleteThis is so so important and true!
ReplyDeleteIt is! And such an important thing to remember and live by. <3
DeleteSo very true! It's so important.
ReplyDeleteWe matter so much! <3
DeleteI agree. I treasure all the pictures I have of my mom and our memories together. I take pictures often because it matters to me to have the ability to share memories with my kids as they get older too.
ReplyDeleteI'm the same way, Crystal. With photos (and videos) I can even "introduce" my kids to my grandparents who died before they were born. It's an incredible treasure. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
DeleteIt's amazing how quickly you forget! And how those photos make you smile! #SeniorSalonPitstop
ReplyDeleteExactly, Lydia! We forget all too quickly, but photos can easily bring it right back. Thanks so much for stopping by.
DeleteGreat ideas, Jennifer! ~Lisa, Sweet Tea & Friends #52-54
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Lisa!
DeleteWhen I wrote my family book the first "rule" I made for myself was that this was not going to be purely a listing of names, dates and birthplaces. It had to have stories, even a line or two, for everyone and it needed context in the times in which they lived. So, a few explanations about farming in Victorian times or how the city my mom and her sisters grew up in adapted to World War II or the cholera epidemic in London in the 1800s. It makes it all so much richer.
ReplyDeleteYes!! I love that, Jeanie. That's what I have always tried to do with both family stories and photos. The context in which people lived, as you mentioned, and their experiences have so much meaning. They make faces and names and dates REAL! I agree completely, and from experience--"it makes it all so much richer." Beautifully said. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and experience with us here, Jeanie!
DeleteI really enjoyed this post. Yes, it's so important to preserve those family stories and memories. Jennifer, what a wonderful post. Thank you for sharing your post at The Crazy Little Lovebirds link party #44.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Stephanie--I'm so glad! We matter so, so much. <3
DeleteI agree with what everyone here has said.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Paula. It's true! :)
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