Recording Legacy Stories: Create a Timeline
Two new entries in one day—this is a record for me! But I thought someone might be interested in this question that I received today from a friend, who had read some of my e-zine articles on my website.
Shirley wrote: "...I just read your articles. Just this afternoon I was thinking about recording some of the stories from my mother-in-law. She has dementia, but can still remember things in the past. I would love to help carry on her legacy through events in her life. How did you get started?'
My response: "One way to begin might be to create a timeline. I would divide it into ten-year segments. Then, begin adding dates that relate to people, place, or events—like births, deaths, marriages, etc.
Next, you might sit down with your mother-in-law, after you have it outlined it, and ask her for some more info and details. Then, just pick one person, place, or event, and ask her to tell you about it. I would suggest using a tape recorder, so you don't miss any of the details. Later, this recording might also give you some ideas for other stories.
When I give one of my BLESSED workshops (Building Legacies. Encouraging Spiritual Stories. Equipping Disciples.) on writing your family/faith stories, I have a lot of prompts to help the participants. I'd be happy to share some of them with you. Maybe I can even give one of my workshops in your area. Wouldn't that be fun!"
Next, you might sit down with your mother-in-law, after you have it outlined it, and ask her for some more info and details. Then, just pick one person, place, or event, and ask her to tell you about it. I would suggest using a tape recorder, so you don't miss any of the details. Later, this recording might also give you some ideas for other stories.
When I give one of my BLESSED workshops (Building Legacies. Encouraging Spiritual Stories. Equipping Disciples.) on writing your family/faith stories, I have a lot of prompts to help the participants. I'd be happy to share some of them with you. Maybe I can even give one of my workshops in your area. Wouldn't that be fun!"
Karen, I really like your suggestion about making a timeline and then filling in the details of someone's life journey. Thanks for sharing this. - ml
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Let me know how it works for you, Mary. Keep writing! kj
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