Klamath Writers' Guild

Everyone has a story to tell.  All you have to do is ask a few questions and listen to uncover the wonders of Telling Life Stories.

Here are some of the many benefits of Telling Life Stories as shared with me by Dr. Ken Magee, a member of the Klamath Writers' Guild.

Sharing life stories of individuals and cultures gives meaning and value to our experiences.  It definitely has the ability to benefit both the person him or herself but also adds meaning for family, friends and future generations.  It will help them understand their heritage.

It is a way of close interaction for families often separated by long distances and hectic schedules.   It not only helps individuals feel better about themselves, but to discover interesting things about each other - often unknown things.   It says, "You are a special person and I want to know more about you."      

It may bring many emotional benefits: Lessening of psychological pain; Bringing people at odds, for even years, back together; and realizing that their lives have been productive.  Health benefits include: Lowering of blood pressure; a stronger immune system; an increase in self-esteem; help in a grieving process and depression.

It may be a way of fostering pride in their families past, of belonging to something greater than ones own self.  It is a way of passing on the lessons of life and what one considers of most importance.  It may be a way of possibly encouraging family members to carry the torch and complete a task begun years before.

Telling and capturing life stories is very powerful.  It does take work, but every single Hospice that has started doing this have only the highest acclaim for the results.

There are several ways to get started on Telling Life Stories and one of the easiest ways is to ask about family history. Where did your grandparents or great-grandparents come from?  Where were your parents born?  Ask questions about their childhood, or the friends they remember as they were growing up.  Ask about brother(s) or sister(s).  If you would like to know more or how to get started please send an email to dungeonpress@msn.com with Telling Life Stories as the Subject or you can check out the following link http://www.capturinglifestories.com/

From time to time we will post Life Stories on our site with the permission of the contributor.  Our first story is from Ken about his cousin Rex, it is called:  The Crick.  http://klamathwritersguild.org/The_Crick.aspx