I HAVEN'T HEARD THAT ONE BEFORE

Deeper Connections

Whether you see your parents and grandparents every day or talk to them once a month, I guarantee they have a story you haven’t heard yet.

Sometimes, you know the story exists. These stories are often traumatic such as living through the Holocaust, fighting in a war, or the loss of a child.

Sometimes, you don’t realize the story exists such as an abusive relationship or a secret adoption.

Sometimes, the stories are hard to share because they feature loved ones who have passed away or are estranged from the family.

Often, you don’t hear the stories simply because you haven’t asked. Stories like how I met your mother, the time I jumped from an airplane, and meet your great-grandmother come to mind.

You know these stories will solve mysteries that linger for you and help you understand your parents and grandparents more fully. These stories will form deeper connections between your parents and your children. And, you know that saving these stories can help your loved ones feel valued and honored.

Why don't you ask?

Lots of Reasons

But, why don't you ask?

You’re too busy.

You don’t know what to say.

Your loved one clams up when you ask.

You don’t know when the time is “right”.

You feel like it’s too late.

Be the one who asked.
- Michelle Beckman

The Time Is Now

A professional memoirist can help you capture your loved one’s stories, ask the right questions, and help your loved one “open up”.

But—she can’t help you until you decide the time is now. Tomorrow might just be too late. You need to be the one who asked.

Most of the time, when I tell people what I do, they say, “I wish I knew you before so-and-so passed away.” That’s why I say I’m in the regret prevention business.

I help your loved ones get their life stories from their heads and their hearts on to paper and playlist before it’s too late.

Please take a minute and think about your friends and family members.

Who should preserve their parents’, grandparents’, or their own life stories now?

Hospice patient

A hospice patient told a story of horrific abuse. She passed away two weeks later. Her children never had a chance to talk with her about it or to understand more about how the events changed her life.

A grandmother

A grandmother doesn’t think she can remember her childhood stories, but her memoirist makes remembering seem easy. Her children and grandchildren learn how she became who she is and feel blessed by her wisdom and rich history.

A widow

A widow wants to write a tribute book that honors her husband, his career, and his role as father and grandfather. She is well-intentioned but never gets around to writing the book. Her children and grandchildren miss out on her husband’s stories (and many of her own).

Disclaimer

This publication is based upon personal experience, research, and education. Although the author has made every reasonable attempt to achieve complete accuracy of the content in this article, the author and Sunday Dinner Stories assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or inaccurate information. For privacy reasons, some names may have been changed or omitted. The content is not intended to replace common sense, legal, medical, or other professional advice; it is meant to encourage, inspire, educate, and inform the reader. That means you should consult with your attorney, doctors, and other professionals if you have any concern about implementing our advice. But we hope you'll consider us your memoir professionals and will consult us for all your storytelling needs!

Copyright

© 2021 Michelle Beckman, Sunday Dinner Stories, All rights reserved internationally.
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