A 500-sheet pack of paper, $12.00; a 1950's Royal typewriter at a yardsale, $5; two boxes of ribbon for the typewriter, $10; my mother's memoirs, priceless.
Mom was my best friend, and losing her in September was devastating. The dysfunctional family situation surrounding her funeral was traumatic and enough to send lesser women to a therapist for life. But I have my mother's strength, a fact that has crystallized as I've read the memoirs she left behind. Memoirs I encouraged her to finish. And she did. This alone is inspiration for me.
Though we shared a lasting closeness, Mom withheld some pleasant and surprising secrets throughout the years. She concealed these only to reveal them in her writings. And each revelation has brought tears of joy and sadness. There are lessons, truths, and wisdom in her words.
If you've ever considered writing your memoirs, even for posterity, I encourage you to do it. The world you leave behind will be richer for your gift. Mom's story is not eloquent. She wasn't educated. Her book will never be a New York Times Bestseller. Yet she changed one life. Mine.
Isn't that what writing is about? Having an impact? Touching a reader? Take a little bit of time everyday to write a sentence or two about your life. Don't worry who will care. Maybe no one. Until after you've passed.
Just tell your story. Your words. Your way. Any questions?
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